Jonathan Bezdegian, D.M.A.
Campus Minister for Liturgical Music and Mission Trips
Adjunct Faculty
Instructor of Organ
Dr. Jonathan Bezdegian, coordinates liturgical music and the SEARCH pre-Confirmation retreat program, and serves as advisor to the Orthodox Christian Fellowship and chaplain to the rowing team. He is also on the faculty of Assumption’s music department and an avid outdoorsman.
Degrees Earned
B.M., Oberlin College, 2007
M.Mus., McGill University, 2009
D.M.A., The University of Washington, 2018
Dissertation: “Louis Vierne and the Evolution of his Modal Consciousness”
Courses Taught
Fundamentals of Music and Musicianship
Music Theory
Piano
Organ
Harpsichord
Teaching, Performance, and Research Interests
As an organist, I specialize in the repertoire of the French Romantic and Symphonic period, focusing on the works of Louis Vierne. I enjoy the challenges of analyzing Vierne’s music, particularly his 24 Pièces de Fantaisie— a project I began for my Dissertation. Other areas of interest are, The Paris Conservatory and the organs of Aristide Cavaillé-Coll, their history, and subsequent restoration and rebuilds.
Teaching at Assumption allows me to share my knowledge of music at various levels of intensity, ranging from the early stages of musical interest all the way to the formation of advanced music majors. It is a labor of love for me and something I will always continue. For me, it is not just about learning the written notes on the page. Rather, it is the process behind the interpretation, one that will carry everyone through this life. This process instills maturity, discipline, focus, and determination, all of which are essential skills for success. Thus, they are of paramount importance for any Liberal Arts institution and for all students herein.
Publications
“An Exercise in Modal Interplay: Louis Vierne’s Carillon de Westminster.” The Diapason 112, no. 3 (2021): 12-15.
“From Student to Professional: Transitioning to the World of Employment.” The American Organist 55, no. 3 (2021): 52-54.
Worcester Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. “Message from the Dean.” The Worcester Organ Book (2021): 3
“Reflections of a Former Dean: Empowering Chapter Members and Engaging Leadership.” The American Organist 56, no. 8 (2022): 46-47.
“Sequential Chromaticism and ‘Modal Mixture’ Louis Vierne’s Toccata.” In Press.