The majestic pipe organ at Second Baptist Church in San Antonio, symbolizing 46 years of musical dedication.
San Antonio’s vibrant community honors La Faye Duren, the dedicated organist at Second Baptist Church for 46 years. Her commitment to music enhances worship and inspires future generations. From her early beginnings to mentoring young musicians, La Faye’s love for the pipe organ symbolizes the importance of community and music.
San Antonio is filled with vibrant culture and rich history, and at the heart of the community lies a remarkable story of dedication and passion—the journey of La Faye Duren, who has been the organist at Second Baptist Church for an impressive 46 years. On Sunday mornings at 11 a.m., the community gathers at the church to enjoy the inspiring sounds of the pipe organ, a task that La Faye has undertaken with unwavering commitment.
At the age of 70, La Faye describes the pipe organ as “the king of instruments,” a fitting title for a musical machine that has the ability to transform the worship experience. Installed in 1992, this majestic organ boasts over 2,000 pipes and a mechanized blower that provides the delightful sound that fills the church during services. Each week, La Faye dedicates an impressive 10 to 12 hours to practice, ensuring that her music is as uplifting as possible.
La Faye’s journey into the world of music began at the tender age of 6, nurtured by her family and community. She pursued her studies diligently, eventually graduating with a bachelor’s degree in music from Our Lady of the Lake University. Those early influences included lessons from Sister Gabriella Lohan and Mrs. Hughie Dorn, who inspired her to explore the beauty of the organ. In her career, she also had the opportunity to learn from Nelson Armstrong, the choir director at Mount Zion First Baptist Church, which shaped her musical journey.
Second Baptist Church, founded in 1879, is more than just a place of worship; it has been a cornerstone of the San Antonio community, marking its centennial celebration when La Faye joined as the church’s organist. Under the leadership of the Rev. Robert L. Jemerson, La Faye is regarded as “the glue that pulls everything together,” effectively creating a cohesive and joyous worship atmosphere through music.
In addition to her role at Second Baptist Church, La Faye is also dedicated to teaching music to fifth graders at St. Anthony Catholic Elementary School. Her passion for music extends beyond just playing; she actively mentors young musicians at Second Baptist, ensuring that the love for the pipe organ continues to flourish in the next generation.
A concerning trend has emerged within the music community, as the number of organists in Black churches has been declining. This is a statistic that has been noted by the American Guild of Organists. La Faye’s commitment to mentoring young musicians becomes even more vital in this context, as she helps nurture the next generation of organ talent.
Dedicating herself to the art of music does not come without its challenges. La Faye plays a vital role in monitoring the organ’s condition, which is sensitive to changes in temperature. She communicates regularly with maintenance workers to ensure that the organ stays in optimal condition, allowing the congregation to enjoy its full, rich sound.
La Faye’s achievements resonate deeply within her family. Her brother, Larry Carpenter, and the entire family take immense pride in her accomplishments. It showcases the strength of family bonds and the importance of having a support system that encourages the pursuit of passions.
Growing up during the segregated 1960s in San Antonio, La Faye’s life experiences continue to fuel her passion for music and teaching, enriching both her performances and her mentorship. As Second Baptist Church stands as a local landmark of historic significance, La Faye Duren is undoubtedly a part of its rich tapestry, bringing joy and inspiration to the community each Sunday.
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