Musical pedigree
Born in Winnipeg, I completed a Bachelor of Music degree in Organ Performance at the University of Manitoba, under the tutelage of Philadelphia native, Lawrence Ritchey. Dovetailing with my undergraduate studies, I was hired to serve on Yamaha Canada’s national education team as a Regional Director. I subsequently earned a Master of Church Music degree, with a concentration in organ, from Concordia University, River Forest, Illinois. At Concordia, I was introduced to the harpsichord by Baroque performance specialist and author, Natalie Jenne. In 2018, I completed an ARCT in Voice Performance from the Royal Conservatory of Music. Today, I teach both voice and pipe organ at the Conservatory of Performing Arts, University of Regina.
Performing engagements
On several occasions, I have been a featured performer at national and international music festivals. I was a frequent harpsichordist with the Regina Symphony Chamber Players in their Government House Concert Series as well as a continuo organist and harpsichordist with the Regina Symphony Orchestra. I continue to perform in Baroque ensembles with individual members of the RSO.
Prior to the pandemic, I toured as a collaborative organist with Montreal soprano, Kerry-Anne Kutz. This duo introduced new audiences to engaging and diverse works by Canadian composers. As a solo performer, I have commissioned Canadian works for organ and enjoy featuring these alongside historic repertoire in organ recital programs.
As a singer, I am regularly found in the soprano section of Ignite Chamber Choir, operating under the umbrella of Ablaze Vocal Arts Ensemble. Directed by Dorianna Holowachuk, this auditioned ensembles comprises 32 singers and performs two of their own concerts each year, as well as accepting guest spots with groups as diverse as The Tenors and the Regina Symphony Orchestra. I have twice toured Saskatchewan with the Canadian Chamber Choir, once as their Conducting Fellow and once as a soprano with the choir.
Church work
My interest in church music began during my undergraduate years when I became the first Organ Scholar appointed at St. John’s College, University of Manitoba. During Lawrence Ritchey’s 1995-96 sabbatical, I assumed many of his liturgical duties at St. John’s College and taught his organ students through the university music department.
I have held professional appointments as Director of Music and Organist at several cathedrals, including two Anglican (Brandon and Saskatoon) and one Roman Catholic (Holy Rosary, Regina). In these positions, I initiated annual concert series, developed early music vocal ensembles and ran successful Organ Scholar programs. I am presently Organist and Liturgist at the parish church of St. Mary the Virgin, Regina.
Professional associations
I have a lengthy association with the Royal Canadian College of Organists (RCCO), where I have been elected to various positions, including: National President (2008-2010), National Chair for Membership (2005-2008), Regional Director for the Prairies (2000-2004), Centre Chair of both Saskatoon and Regina, and most recently, member of the national Strategic Planning Committee. I am a lifetime member of the RCCO National Council.
I am an accredited member of the Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers’ Association (SRMTA), registered to teach both pipe organ and voice. I sit on the executive of the Regina Branch as Social Convenor.
Valerie Hall's performances have always highly impressed me - her musicianship, insights into the repertoire she performs and her musical projections are extraordinary.
A thoughtful, innovative and uncompromising artist, Valerie has delighted me with her colourful and convincing playing of my work on many occasions.
What a treat to hear the organ in all its glory played by a virtuoso such as Valerie!
Valerie Hall is not only an excellent organist, with high technical and musical skills, but a genuine artist who communicates her passion with elegance, refinement and authority.
