About Dave

Organist

David Wagner is a concert organist who has performed throughout the United States, in England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, France, Hungary and in Russia. He holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Michigan where he studied with Marilyn Mason. In addition to his work as a solo performer, Wagner has also been organist and harpsichordist with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Dave is the recipient of the Palmer Christian award from the University of  Michigan School of Music, for postdoctoral achievement in the field of music performance, and the Arts Achievement Award from Wayne State University. 
 

Radio Host

As a classical music broadcaster, Dave Wagner has a national reputation and is heard regularly as the morning/afternoon host on WRCJ in Detroit. Other radio stations have included WQRS in Detroit , WGUC in Cincinnati, WTMI in Miami, WFLN in Philadelphia,  KMZT in Los Angeles, KTIM in San Francisco,  WBOQ in Gloucester/Boston, Classical Public Radio Network, and Public Radio International.  Dave is also heard as the host of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra live broadcasts throughout the State of Michigan on the WRCJ/WKAR Radio Network, which includes WRCJ-FM (Detroit), WKAR-FM (East Lansing), WMUK-FM (Kalamazoo), and the radio stations of Interlochen Public Classical Radio. To download the WRCJ app or listen live, click HERE.

Clinician

Dave Wagner is available for private masterclass presentations on various aspects of organ performance. These range from service playing, improvisation for beginning students, group coaching and preparation for the audition process. While at Madonna University, Dave presented a yearly masterclass for high school students who were beginning their organ studies, many of whom went on to become organ majors at major universities and conservatories. In May 2019, Dave served as an adjudicator for the Cranbrook Music Guild Piano Competition in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

Organ Consultant

Purchasing a new pipe organ is a major undertaking for any religious institution and one that should be approached with an understanding of the complexities of the instrument and its proper disposition and placement for the greatest musical success. Dave Wagner has been the consultant on a number of projects for various churches and brings with him a vast knowledge of the technical aspects of the pipe organ, along with an appreciation for the role that the instrument will play in its religious and liturgical setting. He is able to provide individuals and committees with a wealth of experience on the design and installation of instruments, and the many options that are available for both acquiring, and financing a new pipe organ. Dave would be happy to meet with individuals for a consultation to discuss particular needs and objectives.

"Dave has been a critical resource in helping our congregation envision, define, and specify the best possible instrument to meet our worship needs. He has worked with all our stakeholders — pastors, musicians, organ builder, acoustic engineer — in order to create something that fits our unique needs. His vast knowledge and past experience helped us refine our understanding of how the organ supports our liturgical worship, vocal accompaniment, and music ministry. From there, he was able to guide us down the right path. He has been invaluable."  

— Steve Scheidt, Lutheran Church of the Redeemer (Birmingham, Michigan)