Come listen and learn from noted local improvisor and church musician, Joe Balistreri, as he discusses, demonstrates, and coaches the basics and intricacies of improvisation!

All are welcome to this final celebratory program of the year – a chapter reception of light refreshments at 6:15 p.m., followed the masterclass at 7:00 p.m.

We are actively seeking participants of all improvisation background and experience! If you're interested in participating in the masterclass, please contact Detroit AGO Sub-dean Jackson Merrill at jmerrill@christchurchgp.org

Recognized for “especially moving” interpretation (The American Organist) and “impressive technique and bristling enthusiasm” (The Diapason), Joe Balistreri's organ performances include conventions, university conferences, and orchestral collaborations. Joe was named one of The Diapason’s inaugural “20 under 30.” In 2016, Joe was appointed visiting lecturer of Gregorian chant and organ at the University of Michigan.

From 2011 to 2021, Joe was Coordinator of Music Ministries for the Archdiocese of Detroit, serving as a resource and community facilitator for parish musicians and clergy. He also was Director of Music at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral, where he was principal organist, directed the choirs, and lead the Cathedral Cultural Series. Joe developed the choral program and facilitated the Sistine Chapel Choir’s 2017 visit to Detroit. Joe is particularly proud of starting the Cathedral Choir Academy and the Schola Cantorum Detroitensis.

Joe holds degrees from the University of Michigan under the mentorship of Dr. James Kibbie and is finishing a Doctorate in Musical Arts with Dr. Kola Owolabi at the University of Notre Dame. He serves as music director of historic St. Matthew Catholic Church in Detroit.

This event is free and open to the public.