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All Saints is pleased to announce that John Milas, AAGO, ChM has accepted the position of Minister of Music. The congregation will have the opportunity to meet John at his first Sunday here on March 16. 

     John met the criteria for our ideal candidate as someone who would engage in respectful collaboration and open communication, be self-motivated, and who possesses a willingness to grow and try new things. The individuals the search committee interviewed also had to demonstrate strong professional musicianship on organ and piano, as well as skill in leading a choral music program consisting of paid section leaders and volunteer members with varying levels of musicianship. Like preferred candidates, John has a familiarity with the Episcopal service and the 1982 Hymnal, as well as a willingness to embrace a broad expression of musical styles.​​​

      As a graduate of Westminster Choir College, John expressed a strong knowledge of and affinity for our Casavant organ and was aware of Lee Hastings Bristol, Jr., the college's president, as our organist and choir director during summers for many years. The committee, along with the    Rev. King, asked him to perform a piece he had prepared for his interview/audition as well as to play a hymn and service music, including improvisation between verses. His outstanding keyboard skills and joyful attitude, which encouraged the evaluators to sing along, won the committee's hearts. In addition to his mastery on organ and piano, Jon plays harpsichord.                                    

    The committee--which consisted of Chad Newsome as chairperson, Debbie McCullam and Meg Beresik--and the Rev. King were also impressed by John's perspective on the role of music and the choir in liturgy. John, who holds a choir master certificate through the American Guild of Organists, believes "anyone can sing," but it is the sense of community and friendly relationships that develop among singers which lead a choir to improve.

     John, who recently completed graduate studies at the University of Alabama, brings several unique qualities and experience with him. As part of his scholarship requirements at Alabama, he played the university's carillon at special events and before Crimson Tide football games--in front of audiences of tens of thousands. Until moving back to New Jersey, he also served as organist and handbell choir director at Grace Presbyterian Church in Tuscaloosa, which he described as a "transformative experience" in his faith journey. Furthermore, he continues to tune, repair, and rebuild pianos professionally.  

     Please offer John the kind of warm welcome for which All Saints is known!