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Jan 23, 2012 | EDOT Staff

Organist Gerre Hancock Dies at 78

Organist Gerre Hancock passed away suddenly on Saturday, January 21, at he age of 78. As one of America's most highly-touted organists, Hancock composed the hymn for Bishop Andy Doyle's consecration service, and served as organist at St. Thomas Episcopal Church Fifth Avenue in New York City for over thirty years.

 

Hancock was currently serving as a professor of Organ and Sacred Music at University of Texas at Austin, his alma mater. He and his wife Judith have been resident in the Diocese of Texas and gave recitals and classes regularly in several parishes. He conducted the Diocesan Choral Festival twice, including the 50th anniversary. 

 

"This is a great loss for Episcopal musicians, including many like me who have studied with him over the years," said Linda Patterson, chair of the Diocesan Music Commission. "He just signed the paperwork for my final doctoral committee."

 

Hancock's body will be cremated, and a memorial Choral Requiem Eucharist for him will be celebrated at St. Thomas on February 4 at 11 a.m., with a reception following the liturgy. Hancock’s ashes will be interred beneath the floor of the chancel where choir directors stand to lead the choir. Please keep Hancock and his family in your prayers.