Interview with David M. Lowry - OH 754

Interviewer

Lenora Morrow Jeffcoat and Ryan Holcombe

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Abstract

This oral history interview, conducted in February 2024 by Lenora M. Jeffcoat (Winthrop Class of 2001) and Ryan Holcombe, features Dr. David M. Lowry, Professor Emeritus of Music at Winthrop University. In the interview, Dr. Lowry reflects on his long and influential career as an organist, educator, and church musician.

He begins by recounting his early musical development in West Virginia and North Carolina, describing his introduction to piano and organ study, early church influences, and formative training in Asheville. He discusses his undergraduate experience at Baldwin Wallace College, where exposure to major musical traditions—including performances by the Cleveland Orchestra—shaped his artistic growth, as well as his later studies in New York. These experiences, along with mentorship from prominent teachers and performers, helped define his approach to organ performance and sacred music.

Dr. Lowry traces his professional journey to Winthrop University, where he joined the faculty in 1965 as college organist and went on to teach for nearly five decades (1965–2012). He reflects on his teaching philosophy, the development of organ students, and the accomplishments of many former students who pursued significant careers in music. He also discusses his work as a church musician and choral director, emphasizing the importance of integrating music with liturgy and fostering meaningful musical experiences for both performers and congregations.

A significant portion of the interview focuses on Dr. Lowry’s deep engagement with pipe organs, including his role in promoting, installing, and maintaining major instruments. He recounts the installation of the Gabriel Kney organ in Barnes Recital Hall and the restoration and preservation of the D. B. Johnson Memorial Organ in Byrnes Auditorium, highlighting their historical and musical significance. He also offers insight into organ construction, performance practice, and the evolving challenges of maintaining these instruments.

Throughout the interview, Dr. Lowry reflects on broader changes in church music over the course of his career, expressing concern for shifting musical practices while reaffirming his commitment to traditional liturgical music. He underscores the central role of churches, congregations, and financial support in sustaining organ music and choral traditions.

Dr. David M. Lowry (1938-2025) is a distinguished organist, harpsichordist, music director, and educator. In addition to his tenure at Winthrop University, he has served as Parish Musician at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Columbia, South Carolina, and as Music Director of the York County Choral Society (1980–2011). He has been an active member and leader in several professional organizations, including the Association of Anglican Musicians (AAM), the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM), and the American Guild of Organists (AGO).

Publication Date

2-16-2024

Unique Identifier

OH 754

Format

MP4;

Length

01:00:32

Restrictions

This interview is open for use under the rules and regulations of the Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections

Series

Faculty and Staff

Keywords

David M. Lowry, Winthrop University, Music Department, Music, Organist

Interview with David M. Lowry - OH 754

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