Organist

Lois Harms began playing the organ in church in her hometown of Britt, Iowa, when she was 11 years old.

She holds music degrees from the University of Iowa and Drake University, and began her career teaching instrumental music in the public schools for six years.

In 1978, she began studies with Dr. Frank Jordan on Central’s organ and was named Central’s associate organist in the fall of 1989. Previously, she was organist at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Ankeny for 15 years and also served St. Luke’s Methodist Church in Newton, Iowa.

She has spent nearly 30 years teaching piano and organ at Grand View University, while serving as choir accompanist and college organist. At the same time, she has served as principal accompanist for the Iowa Youth Chorus and has traveled extensively with both of these choirs.

As a clarinetist, she played professionally with the Stadler Ensemble for over 30 years.

Lois is married to Wendell who is also a member at Central. She is also the mother of two grown children.