On Sunday, Aug. 17, a trio of talented instrumentalists will perform throughout the service, which begins at 10:30 a.m. The public is encouraged to join our congregation for this special musical event. A free will offering will be available to help support their ministries. Below are brief biographical sketches of the performers.

Mark Thallander is an internationally known freelance organist, composer, and author living in Palm Springs, California, and Ogunquit, Maine. Mark joined the Crystal Cathedral (California) staff in 1976 as a music associate. During his 18-year tenure, he played at worship services and concerts as well as noon organ recitals for guests visiting the Cathedral.

In 2003, his arm was amputated following an automobile accident and hospitalization in Portland. Drawing on his experience, he has been interviewed on radio and television and has accepted speaking engagements in churches, schools, and universities. In 2004, he received the Life’s Not Fair but God is Great Award presented at the Crystal Cathedral.

Mark has returned to playing the organ at venues large and small throughout the United States.

He attended Central Bible College and Evangel University and has a BA in humanities from Vanguard University and a master's degree in music from California State University-Long Beach.

A detailed biography, YouTube videos of selected performances, and organ publications can be viewed at http://www.markthallanderorgan.com/about/

Wendy Hagarty, originally from Northbridge, Massachusetts, received her bachelor’s degree from Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she majored in music education. She earned her master’s equivalent studying vocal technique and music technology.

Wendy spent 35 years as an elementary music specialist and clinician in Framingham, Massachusetts. Nominated by her colleagues, Wendy received the district’s “You Are Special” Award.

She was the associate director of music at the Medway Community Church for several years and retired to Wells in 2019. Wendy is currently a freelance church musician in southern Maine and is the director of the Senior Moments Chorus out of Kennebunkport.

Ted Hagarty, originally from Niantic, Connecticut, received his bachelor’s degree from Boston University. From there, he went on to study music education and wind ensemble conducting at New England Conservatory, where he earned his master’s degree.

He spent 42 years as a middle school band director in Foxboro, Massachusetts, where his ensembles earned many honors and recognitions. He was inducted into the Massachusetts Music Instrumental and Choral Conductors Association Hall of Fame.

After retirement, he worked as an adjunct music professor at Providence College and for the Westboro Public Schools. He is currently a freelance church musician and plays with the Seacoast Clarinet Quartet.