Hailed as “a great organist” displaying “phenomenal technique and sheer musicality” (Bloomberg News), James Kennerley is a multi-faceted artist, working as a conductor, keyboardist, vocalist, composer, and leadership consultant. His performances are known for their illustrious flair and thrilling virtuosity, subtlety and finesse. James’ YouTube performances have enjoyed worldwide popularity and millions of views globally.
Mr. Kennerley was appointed the Municipal Organist of Portland, Maine, in 2017, forming part of a lineage of distinctive concert organists going back to 1912. Together with the Friends of the Kotzschmar Organ, the Municipal Organist position is one of the most prominent and significant for the promotion of the organ, its music, and the many educational and outreach opportunities it enables. In 2020, James initiated the Backstage Pipes organ tour program, which introduces hundreds of newcomers to the pipe organ each year.
In 2023 James was named Minister of Music at the historic Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church in Falmouth, Maine, where he directs the choir, performs on the fine Casavant pipe organ, and continues to make the church a focus for musical performances throughout the year. Previously, he was Director of Music at Saint Paul’s Church and Choir School in Harvard Square, Cambridge MA, directing the choir of boy choristers and professional men in daily performances, regular concert tours, recordings, and broadcasts.
For more about James, visit his website.