• Programming
• Leader of the Arts

Norman Mackenzie

December, 2004

Norman Mackenzie’s abilities as musical collaborator, conductor, and concert organist have brought him national recognition. As Director of Choruses for the ASO, he was chosen to help carry forward the creative vision of legendary founding conductor Robert Shaw to a new generation of music lovers. He also serves as Director of Music and Fine Arts for Atlanta’s Trinity Presbyterian Church, where he oversees a comprehensive program including seven singing and ringing choirs and two concert series. In addition, he pursues an active recital and guest conducting schedule each season.

Mr. Mackenzie has been hailed by The New York Times as Robert Shaw’s “designated successor.” In his 14-year association with Shaw, he was keyboardist for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, principal accompanist for the ASO Choruses, and ultimately assistant conductor for those choruses. In addition, he was musical assistant and accompanist for the Robert Shaw Chamber Singers, the Robert Shaw Institute Summer Choral Festivals in France and in the United States, and the famed Shaw/Carnegie Hall Choral Workshops.

A native of suburban Philadelphia, Mr. Mackenzie made his debut as a pianist with the Philadelphia Orchestra at age 12, and as an organist at age 20. He made his New York recital debut at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. He holds degrees from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and Westminster Choir College. He has prepared choruses for performance under Robert Spano, Donald Runnicles, Roberto Abbado, John Nelson, Alan Gilbert, Yoel Levi, Robert King, James Conlon, and Sir Neville Marriner.

Mr. Mackenzie is a frequent recitalist at conventions of the American Guild of Organists and clinician for those of the American Choral Directors Association. He has been regularly featured on National Public Radio’s Performance Today and Minnesota Public Radio’s Pipedreams. His performance of the Stephen Paulus Organ Concerto No. 1 can be heard on the CD Pipedreams Premieres, Vol. 2.