The next music director at Morristown’s Presbyterian Church on the Green had better have huge feet.
Jim Hicks is stepping down in September after 26 years at the church.
He leaves very big shoes to fill.
“Twenty-six years is just about enough for me,” said Jim, 53. “I need to try some other things.”
That probably will include more composing, recordings and Celtic concerts, he said. Last year he released an album of organ music he recorded in Sweden.
Jim, who plays everything from bagpipes to the church’s majestic 4,000-pipe Austin organ, holds music degrees from the Peabody Institute of Music of Johns Hopkins University, Yale University, and the University of Cincinnati. He said he feels grateful for his time at the church.
“It’s been great. I’ve been afforded many opportunities than many people don’t get to do. I’ve worked with many cool people. I consider myself lucky. It’s been a good life. I feel positive about it. I just feel it’s time to do some other things,” said Jim, who lives in Morristown with his wife, Bonnie. Jim’s daughter, Virginia Hicks, is a fine singer.
Testimonials to Jim flew fast and furious at last fall ‘s celebration of his 25th anniversary at the church. Some of them are reprinted below.
It’s been our privilege to have a front-row seat to Jim’s music. Please take a few moments to enjoy the links below. Jim’s performances have enriched Morristown for more than a quarter-century. And his guidance has nurtured a generation of musicians.
While he will be missed at the Presbyterian Church, for sure, it’s exciting to contemplate where Jim’s musical journey will lead next.
Keep the hits coming, Jim.
CHURCH COMMENTS ON JIM HICKS FOR HIS 25TH ANNIVERSARY LAST YEAR:
Dr. Jim Hicks has been a magnet for recruiting new church members to the Presbyterian Church in Morristown since he began leading our music ministry 25 years ago. His fame as a creative, talented, and devoted choir director has brought many to our church choirs and to our pews to listen to the Carnegie Hall quality of music each Sunday morning. He is truly a genius and able to perform, direct various choirs of varying ability and ages, compose music, and work with a team of worship leaders all at the same time. It a joyful blessing to hear his creative genius at work in our church Sunday after Sunday in addition to the special concert performances he presents throughout the year.” –The Rev. Cindy Alloway, associate pastor, The Presbyterian Church in Morristown
The great thing about working with Jim is that he is so confident and secure as a person and as a musician that he allows me to be creative in my own way, no matter how crazy he thinks it might be. Julie Ramseyer, Director of Children’s Music and choir member
Attending one of Jim’s concerts is like being at Lincoln Center. He is an ambassador of music, not only for our church but within the community, and he is an internationally renowned organist. Vicki Willson, Member and friend
Jim Hicks is respected by fellow musicians, appreciated in the community and loved by his church. He is masterful in his work, erudite, knowledgeable and fun. Over his 25 years with our church, Jim has pioneered new music and ways to worship through his Music Ministry to broaden our ability to provide glory to God. Beth and Bruce Fisher, Members and friends
Mr. Hicks was much more than my bell choir director. He was a mentor to me through high school. He was someone I looked up to. He is one of the reasons that I love music so much. I am going to miss him as I enter college this year, but I will continue my involvement in music forever. Peter Bye, former Ringer-on-the-Green, member of church choirs since kindergarten
Over the past 25 years, Jim has been my friend and mentor. He is a truly spiritual individual and is an exceptional musician. Jo Potter, Choir member, friend and associate
Jim is a beacon of light for our children. There were times in our church when he led the Youth Ministry along with music. He is an anchor – always supportive and yet no-nonsense – Jim mentors each individual and because of his guidance and expectations, he raises our youth’s expectations and self-worth. Parents of youth choir members
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MUSIC FROM JIM HICKS:
Elegiac Dance remembers a fallen friend
A rousing Star-Spangled salute to our troops on Memorial Day
Podcast: Jim Hicks goes to the ends of Scandinavia to record new CD
Jim Hicks pays organic tribute to departing pastor
A Celtic Christmas
Crank those speakers!
O Say Can You Hear
My Ears Are Ringing
A Musical History of Morristown
