Picture an enraptured eight year old boy, already studying the piano, listening to the organ music on an Easter morning, and absolutely knowing that he was meant to share his musical gifts through that magnificent instrument.  That young man was none other than Jim May of Lincolnville, who has recently agreed to serve as interim organist and choir director at the John Street United Methodist Church in Camden during the absence of the church’s regular organist, Dorothy Koski, who is recovering from illness.

 Returning to Jim’s story, after that Easter morning revelation, he pleaded with his parents to get him an organ.  They told him he was too small for such a large instrument, but that if he were still interested when he reached age 12, they would consider buying him an organ.

 As it turned out, when Jim was 11, a local church put out a call for an organist, and Jim badgered his parents to permit him to try out for the position.  They tried to discourage him by reminding him he could not reach the pedals, but he was not to be deterred, and became a church organist at that point.  (He continued growing and his feet eventually did reach the pedals.)  True to their word, when Jim was 12, his parents bought him a parlor organ.

Having been advised by a mentor that musicians struggle to make a living, Jim earned a degree in business, and worked full time in that field.  However, over a 30-year career, he also continued to follow his passion for the organ with positions in various churches, including Catholic, Protestant, Lutheran, Unitarian and Episcopal.  He is a certified member of the American Guild of Organists. 

Now in his “retirement,” Jim is excited to arrive at John Street just in time to be planning for Advent and Christmas, looking forward to celebrating his favorite musical season with jubilation and style.  In addition to his organ music, Jim has goals to maintain and build the choir, always a strong component of worship in this church.

Jim has utmost respect for Dorothy and wants to make it clear that he is not replacing her, but is “keeping the organ bench warm” until her return.