top of page

Mary Prange, Director Emeritus

Education:

​

  • B.S. in Elementary Education - Dr. Martin Luther College

  • Master of Fine Arts in Organ Performance - University of Minnesota

​

When did you first become part of Chorale and how did you get into your current role?

​

I joined the Chorale in 1974 when I began teaching at Atonement Lutheran School where Kurt Eggert, the director of the Chorale, served as pastor. I succeeded him as the director in 1993. I retired from directing in 2018 and now enjoy singing in the alto section.

​

What do you love about what you do in Chorale?

​

I love being able to bring Christ-centered music from every era of Christian music to the singers and the listeners.

What is you favorite Bible verse and/or music quote?

​

Psalm 145:4 "One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts."  It is the calling of every believer to bring the Gospel to the next generation through word and in the case of the Chorale as those words are connected to song. 

 

What is your life like outside of Chorale? 

​

I spend a lot of time with my family and many friends. I play organ regularly and have taken up reading in my retirement.  Of course my main hobby revolves around the Chicago Cubs - the no longer "Lovable Losers."

 

What is your favorite piece of choral music?

​

I love anything that has the name of J. S. Bach attached! Beyond that a piece that is very high on my list of favorites is a quiet little a cappella piece by Walter Pelz entitled "Peace I Leave with You" based on John 14.

 

What is a fun fact about you?

​

I have never seen the movie "The Wizard of Oz" from beginning to end. I haven't actually seen too many movies from beginning to end! 

​

Other Music Experience:

​

  • Studied organ with Bethel Zabell at Milwaukee Lutheran Teachers' College and Bruce Backer at Dr. Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN

  • Studied organ with Dr. Heinrich Fleischer and conducting with Dr. Thomas Lancaster at the University of Minnesota

  • Served as organist and choir director at Atonement Lutheran Church for about forty years

  • Was instrumental in the formation of the WELS Conference on Worship, Music, and the Arts

  • Served as clinician at various conferences, and has directed many choirs at various events around WELS

​

​

bottom of page