Dr. Olsen working with a student at Salem College (1965/2013 Flentrop).
With over fifteen years of college-level teaching organ, Dr. Olsen's teaching philosophy is one steeped in healthful technique, historically-informed performances, and communicating a myriad of emotions to one's audiences – whether in the practice room, concert hall, or sanctuary. Having been educated at one of the world's premier schools of organ performance, the Eastman School of Music, Dr. Olsen understands the importance of due diligence in practice, musical study, and experiences in many musical genres - not just the organ!
He believes in demanding each student's best at all times, understanding that each student is at a different place in his or her development. This is essential when working with high school, undergraduate, and graduate students all within the same studio at UNC School of the Arts.
Dr. Olsen teaches an eclectic repertoire to his students from the earliest sources of keyboard music to pieces written within the last few months (he has been involved in several premieres). Musicians must understand the historical context of the music, the instrument and locale for which the music was written, and the possibilities of current day use in the concert hall or sacred institution.
Dr. Olsen also teaches a diverse group of students in sacred music skills. With the fact that the vast majority of organ students will find full-time (or at least part-time) employment in the church, it is essential for all students to have a strong grasp on hymn playing, basic improvisation, anthem accompanying, as well as basic choral conducting and rehearsal techniques. These topics are covered in a weekly master class held jointly between the two studios of UNCSA and Salem College, as well as individually in lessons and the Sacred Music Skills course.
Dr. Olsen maintains a private studio for those community members who seek to better their repertoire and service playing skills, and do not wish to pursue a college degree.
For more information on either the UNCSA or Salem College organ programs, please click the institution links, or click the contact link.
He believes in demanding each student's best at all times, understanding that each student is at a different place in his or her development. This is essential when working with high school, undergraduate, and graduate students all within the same studio at UNC School of the Arts.
Dr. Olsen teaches an eclectic repertoire to his students from the earliest sources of keyboard music to pieces written within the last few months (he has been involved in several premieres). Musicians must understand the historical context of the music, the instrument and locale for which the music was written, and the possibilities of current day use in the concert hall or sacred institution.
Dr. Olsen also teaches a diverse group of students in sacred music skills. With the fact that the vast majority of organ students will find full-time (or at least part-time) employment in the church, it is essential for all students to have a strong grasp on hymn playing, basic improvisation, anthem accompanying, as well as basic choral conducting and rehearsal techniques. These topics are covered in a weekly master class held jointly between the two studios of UNCSA and Salem College, as well as individually in lessons and the Sacred Music Skills course.
Dr. Olsen maintains a private studio for those community members who seek to better their repertoire and service playing skills, and do not wish to pursue a college degree.
For more information on either the UNCSA or Salem College organ programs, please click the institution links, or click the contact link.