The accent may be British, but the high-energy impression Ian Watson instantly conveys is a delightful blend of Steve Martin and Garrison Keillor. In addition to accompanying the Assumption Chorale and teaching in the Department of Art and Music, Ian leads an active concert touring and recording life. Forays to Venice or London to perform with Sir John Elliot Gardner are nothing unusual. He also is the music director of St Paul’s Cathedral in Worcester, where he frequently can be heard playing the organ and directing the choir on Sundays, and at special services.

When asked how he finds the time to lead such a complex life, Ian tells you how, as a classically raised musician in England, he learned to work seven days a week. “You can be performing in Spain one evening, and back in a London recording session the next day at noon.” The secret to his stamina enduring twenty years of such a life, Ian attributes to “being blessed with good health, and then doubly blessed.” But eventually Ian’s desire to feel part of a community coincided with his wife’s wish to move back to her native United States. After careful consideration, the Watsons chose Massachusetts, where they have settled with their four sons.