Celebrating our organ intern, Aaron Looney

Celebrating Aaron Looney: A Remarkable Journey at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in partnership with St. Olaf College.

Aaron Looney’s journey began with Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Excelsior, MN three years ago as a sophomore at St. Olaf College. From the beginning his passion for music, the arts, and learning were evident. For me personally, Aaron has been a lifesaver – and I have been so proud to mentor him and be part of his journey. 

The Mount Calvary community has observed immense growth, and engagement from Aaron.  We have been blessed by his presence and stand in awe of all that he has accomplished. We have witnessed talent blossom, confidence soar, and commitments deepen. Aaron is an inspiration and a true model of an “eager learner.” 

As Aaron prepares for new adventures, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and praise. His music, creativity, and leadership have become part of our worship, and his presence a cherished gift. We are proud of who he has become, and we eagerly anticipate the amazing things he will do in the years to come.

As we bid farewell to Aaron, we celebrate a final weekend on May 18 and 19, 2024 at Mount Calvary. On Saturday at 5:00pm he will present the prelude and postlude. On Sunday morning at 9:00 and 10:30am there will be a musical feast celebrating Aaron filled with festive hymns, trumpets, timpani, and the Chancel Choir with orchestra will present selections from ‘a new creation’ by René Clausen.  Join us as we celebrate Aaron – a young musician who has left an incredible mark on our hearts and souls.

Submitted By Jeremy Haug

Upcoming opportunities to hear Aaron:

Sunday, April 28 at 8:15pm – Senior Recital at St. Olaf College

Aaron Looney presents a senior organ recital at St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN as part of his Bachelor of Church Music major degree requirements.   Free and open to the public.

St. Olaf College

Boe Memorial Chapel

1520 St. Olaf Avenue

Northfield, MN 55057

Sunday, May 5 at 4:00pm – Rising Stars of the Organ Featuring Aaron Looney with the Hamline Church Festival Chorus

Rising Stars of the Organ – Aaron Looney, Organist, with the Hamline Church Festival Chorus.   Aaron presents a recital showcasing his artistry and skill on Hamline’s Casavant Organ featuring music by Bach and movements from Vierne’s Symphony VI. The Hamline Church Festival Chorus joins Aaron for Rheinburger’s Stabat Mater in G minor and Brahms’ Geistliches Lied.   Free-will offering and open to the public. 

Hamline Church

1514 Englewood Ave

St. Paul, MN

Sunday, May 12 at 3:00pm – Organ Competition Winners Recital sponsored by TCAGO

AGO/Quimby Regional Competition for Young Organists (RCYO) Winners Recital.  We are pleased to celebrate Trevor Good, 1st place and Aaron Looney, 2nd place winners from the July 2023 AGO/Quimby Regional Competition for Young Organists held at Church of Saint Louis, King of France during the North Central AGO 2023 Regional Convention.  This recital is sponsored by the Twin Cities American Guild of Organists (TCAGO) at Gloria Dei Lutheran, St. Paul, MN.  Reception to follow.  Free and open to the public. 

Gloria Dei Lutheran Church

700 Snelling Ave S

St. Paul, MN 55116

May 18 & 19 – Aaron Looney last Weekend Worship at Mount Calvary

We celebrate and appreciate Aaron Looney May 18 & 19 in his last weekend at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Excelsior, MN.  Festive hymns, and some pieces featuring Aaron at the organ on both Saturday and Sunday.  Additionally, on Sunday, May 19 at 9:00 and 10:30am the Chancel Choir and orchestra will present A New Creation by Rene’ Clausen.  

Mount Calvary Lutheran Church

301 County Road 19

Excelsior, MN 55331