Sharon M. Jackman  (smj3960@exodus.valpo.edu)
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Education:
 
Bachelor of Science in Music and Religion and Christian Education The
Defiance College, Defiance, Ohio.  1992.
 
Currently pursuing Master of Music in Church Music, organ
specification Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, Indiana. Projected
graduation date, December 1994.
 
Occupation:
 
My first reaction to answer that is to say that I am a student.  I
hold an organist position at a small church nearby, but it's nothing
to brag about.  I have held positions in two different Roman Catholic
parishes in Northwest Ohio, and have subbed in many different
denominational settings.  I have been playing organ for church
services since I was 10 years old.  I was especially inspired by my
Great-Grandmother, who I had the fortune to know well before she died.
I made a promise to her (when I was 9, I think) that I would serve the
Church with the musical talent that God had given me.  Who would have
believed that it has taken me this far!!
 
Musical Interests:
 
I am interested, of course, in literature for the solo organ, as well
as symphonic works by a large range of composers.  My musical
upbringing exposed me to a wide range of styles.  Spike Jones, Mitch
Miller, and Homer and Jethro were among the styles I listened to as a
child.  I am also partial to the big band sound, piano rags, jazz, and
some new age music... especially Mannheim Steamroller.  (Chip Davis
was born and raised in my hometown.)
 
Currently, my focus is upon a task which all graduate students must
eventually undertake.  My thesis.  I have chosen to study the use of
hymns in the Roman Catholic Church since the institution of the
Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy and Music in Catholic Worship.  I
am working mainly with the hymnals themselves, analyzing the *type* of
hymns that have been used, and whether they meet the standards put
forth in the above documents. Wish me luck.