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About Richard C. Spotts
Author: L’Orgue Mystique
Professional Organist
1000+
Performances
20+
Years of Expertise
1
Lifelong Passion
Richard trained as a classical organist and holds degrees in music and religious studies from Westminster Choir College. His deep curiosity about the intersection of mysticism, music, and liturgy led him to Charles Tournemire’s L’Orgue Mystique — a work he has performed, researched, and lectured on for over a decade.
His recently published book, “Charles Tournemire’s L’Orgue Mystique: La Haute Mission”, is the first English-language exploration of the entire cycle. The book has been praised for its scholarly rigour and spiritual sensitivity, earning acclaim from musicians, theologians, and educators alike.
Brief Biography
Richard trained as a classical organist and holds degrees in music and religious studies. His deep curiosity about the intersection of mysticism, music, and liturgy led him to Charles Tournemire’s L’Orgue Mystique — a work he has performed, researched, and lectured on for over a decade.
His recently published book, L’Orgue Mystique: La Haute Mission, is the first English-language exploration of the entire cycle. The book has been praised for its scholarly rigor and spiritual sensitivity, earning acclaim from musicians, theologians, and educators alike.
In addition to his solo performances, Richard regularly serves churches as a guest organist and choir director. He has substituted for worship services, funerals, and weddings across the United States. When playing in service, he contributes original and instructive program notes that connect the music to scripture and sermon themes.
Rich Spotts by Bill Fraser, Courier Times Intelligencer
Rich Spotts by Bill Fraser, Courier Times Intelligencer
Richard in Performance
Richard performs nationally, often presenting full or partial performances of L’Orgue Mystique with an option of engaging spoken commentary. This lecture-recital format offers audiences a rare chance to encounter Tournemire’s mystical world in a welcoming, accessible setting.
He has appeared in cathedrals, universities, and sacred music conferences, and welcomes invitations to present his work in churches, concert halls, and academic environments.
“As someone who has performed L’Orgue Mystique extensively, Spotts is in a unique position to enlighten his readers concerning performance and interpretation.”
— William Renwick
Spotts encourages the performer to move beyond the notation — toward something more expressive, more fluid — closer to chant and improvisation.”
— Ann Labounsky
Church Work & Weekly Notes
Church Music Ministry — Rooted in liturgy and committed to excellence, Richard is available for:
- Sunday worship (short or long-term sub work)
- Wedding and funeral services
- Interim music leadership
- Seasonal coverage (Advent, Holy Week, Summer)
He also writes weekly musical reflections for each church engagement, offering congregations thoughtful insight into the musical choices behind each Sunday’s service. These essays — part program note, part devotional — can be read on his Liturgical Notes archive.
Rich Spotts by Mark C. Psoras, Philadelphia Inquirer
This magnificent book is not to be absorbed in a single sitting. It is a book to be read and re-read… gradually integrated into one’s understanding of the historical, political, aesthetic, and intellectual currents of the period.”
— William Renwick, McMaster University
Richard C. Spotts is available for:
- Concerts featuring complete or seasonal suites from L’Orgue Mystique
- Guest lectures at universities, seminaries, and music schools
- Workshop intensives for performers or church musicians
- Interviews, book talks, and panel discussions
- Conference keynotes and academic presentations
- Sacred music workshops for organists and liturgists
Connect
Whether you’re a pastor, music director, presenter, or simply curious about sacred music’s hidden gems — Richard would love to hear from you.