Clay Christiansen is an illustrious American organist, celebrated for the extraordinary honor of having performed on the storied Salt Lake Tabernacle organ, an instrument renowned for its rich, resonant tones and technical complexity. Furthermore, he has had the distinction of accompanying the revered Mormon Tabernacle Choir, a world-class ensemble known for its sublime harmonies and technical virtuosity, in performances both in Salt Lake City and on extensive concert tours. In addition to his work with the Choir, Christiansen has also delivered organ recitals in the historic Salt Lake Tabernacle, a venue famous for its stunning architecture and acoustics, as well as the Conference Center, a modern performance space with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems.
Christiansen's extraordinary journey in the realm of music commenced in the quaint city of Emery, Utah, a place that would forever hold a special significance in his life. The year was 1949, and it was amidst this humble backdrop that his passion for music first began to take shape. As a young child, Christiansen would often find himself enthralled by the piano, spending hours upon hours mastering the intricacies of this magnificent instrument. In fact, his love for music was so profound that he would frequently choose to practice instead of participating in outdoor activities with his neighbors, a testament to the unwavering dedication that would characterize his musical pursuits.
As he grew older, Christiansen's talent for music only continued to flourish. At the tender age of six, he made his debut as a pianist, performing a solo rendition of "We Thank Thee, O God, for a Prophet" in church. This milestone marked the beginning of a lifelong journey that would take him to unprecedented heights. However, it wasn't until he reached the age of eight that Christiansen formally began his piano lessons, marking a significant turning point in his development as a musician.
From a tender age, Christiansen's remarkable aptitude for music began to shine through, showcasing his unwavering commitment to honing his craft. By the time he was just eleven years old, he had already taken on a significant role within his church community, serving as the official accompanist for Sunday School and Priesthood services, while also functioning as a reliable substitute for the ward organist.
Christiansen's academic credentials are quite impressive, boasting a bachelor's degree from the esteemed Brigham Young University, in addition to his master's and Ph.D. degrees in Music Composition, which he earned in 1988 from the University of Utah.
Prior to his academic pursuits, Christiansen honed his musical skills by serving as the organist for St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral in Salt Lake City from 1972 to 1982. Furthermore, he also held the position of organist at Congregation Kol Ami, a Jewish synagogue in Salt Lake City, demonstrating his versatility and ability to excel in diverse musical settings.
For an astonishing span of over three decades, from the year 1982 to 2018, Christiansen held the esteemed position of Tabernacle Organist, a role that has been a cornerstone of his professional life. Throughout this remarkable tenure, he has had the privilege of accompanying the renowned Choir in its numerous performances, showcasing his exceptional skill and artistry as a pianist. In addition to his duties as an accompanist, Christiansen has also had the opportunity to give a multitude of organ recitals, further solidifying his reputation as a master of his craft.
Christiansen is a devoted husband to Diane, and together they are blessed with a large and loving family of 13 children. In addition to his remarkable talent as an organist, Christiansen is also a gifted composer, with a profound passion for creating music that resonates with the soul. His impressive repertoire includes the iconic hymn "In Fasting We Approach Thee", as well as a vast array of choral, piano, and organ pieces and transcriptions that showcase his mastery of his craft. Christiansen's works are highly esteemed and widely published by several prominent music publishing companies, including MorningStar Music Publishers, Shawnee Press, Jackman Music Press, and SDG Press, a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of music.
