Marilyn Mason

b. 1926 - d. 2019

Marilyn Mason was University Organist and Chair of the Organ Department at the University of Michigan. Her extensive career as concert organist, lecturer, adjudicator, and teacher has carried her throughout the Western world. She was the first American woman organist to perform in Westminster Abbey, the first woman organist to play in Latin America, and the first American organist to perform in Egypt. During one year, invitations took her to five continents. She has served as adjudicator at almost every major organ competition in the world. Ms. Mason's dedication to contemporary music was evidenced by the 60 organ works she has commissioned and premiered. More than 20 research tours have focused on historic organs throughout Europe.

In 1987 she was awarded an honorary Doctor of Music by the University of Nebraska. In 1988 she was chosen as Performer of the Year by the New York Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Her discography, on Columbia and Musical Heritage Society labels, includes music of Bach, Handel, Pachelbel, and contemporary composers.