Stephen Leist began serving St. Andrew’s in January 2015, having previously served as organist-choirmaster at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Versailles, Kentucky. Prior to that position, he served as interim organist-choirmaster at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Lexington (KY) and St. Augustine’s Chapel on the campus of the University of Kentucky. He has over 50 years experience singing in choirs, beginning at the age of 9 at Christ Church, Greenville, South Carolina, under the direction of Robert Powell. Stephen holds degrees from Furman University, the University of Wisconsin, and the University of Kentucky. Professional memberships include the American Guild of Organists, the Organ Historical Society, and the Association of Anglican Musicians. He has undertaken several choral residencies at English cathedrals and Westminster Abbey. Stephen divides his time as an academic librarian.
While overseeing the music program at St. Andrew’s, Stephen is directly responsible for playing the organ for services and directing the Parish Choir, which is open to anyone from teens on up. Choral music covers a wide range from the Tudor period to the present day. Participants in the music at St. Andrew’s are motivated to aspire to do their best in support of the liturgy as part of inspiring the worship of others. In August 2024, the Parish Choir was honored to be in residence at Bristol Cathedral in England, leading the cathedral services for an entire week, including Sunday.
Stephen and his wife Joanna, who is also a violist and Suzuki teacher, enjoy travelling, reading, and watching movies. They have two children and two grandchildren, and they share their home with Sophie, a hound mix rescued from Virginia Beach SPCA.
Contact Stephen at sleist@standrewsnorfolk.org
