Frederick Swann

Frederick Swann was one of the most famous organists of the last 50 years due to his many publications, recitals, church performances and his long run on the television program The Hour of Power. His career began when he was just 10 years old and he was asked to fill in for the organist at his father’s church (Theodore Swann was a Methodist Minister in Virginia). Fred had been taking piano lessons and seemed at ease with the organ right from the start. His career included a long association with the Riverside Church in New York City, the Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, CA and the First Congregational Church of Los Angeles. While serving as musical director and organist for the Crystal Cathedral (beginning in 1982) Fred appeared on The Hour of Power with televangelist Robert Schuller, which was broadcasted around the world. Fred served as president of the American Guild of Organists and held several teaching positions including the University Organist and Artist Teacher of Organ at the University of Redlands in Southern California. He passed away in November 2022 at the age of 91.