Albert Gerken, University Carillonneur, Emeritus

Albert Gerken Professor and University Carilloneur, emeritus Albert Gerken has been Carillonneur at the University of Kansas since 1963. He holds the Bachelor of Music degree from the University of New Hampshire (1960) and the Master of Music degree from the University of Michigan (1962). He majored in organ at both institutions and, while at the University of Michigan, began studies in carillon with the late Percival Price, noted campanologist and carillonneur in North America.

Gerken has been a member of the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America since 1962. During that time he has served on several standing committees, the Board of Directors, for four years as editor of the Bulletin, the official publication of The Guild, and for five years as treasurer.

Over the years he has performed a wide variety of programs at KU which have included surveys works of important eighteenth century carillonneurs as well as significant carillon compositions of contemporary composers. He has been a featured recitalist and lecturer/clinician at many GCNA congresses since joining The Guild and has appeared as a guest recitalist throughout North America and Europe.

Gerken has premiered many new carillon works and several have been dedicated to him. Many of his own carillon compositions, arrangements and collected works are widely performed and have been published by The Guild of Carillonneurs in North America and American Carillon Music Editions.