Mykel Luxon's E-Portfolio

Welcome! I'm currently a second-year student at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside near Kenosha, WI double-majoring in the distinct fields of Geosciences and Music Performance. I currently work as Parish Musician at St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Caledonia, WI where I'm tasked with communicating with the administration and congregation to plan meaningful services and events while working independently to prepare accompaniment for weekly performance.

This role, my first job, is a distinct break from my family's work history. Coming from a background where most of my relatives either joined the military or set out on an entrepreneurial path (like my mom's hair salon), which has taught me a great sense of self-discipline, having a career entirely based on music is a first. I do continue a musical tradition in my family ranging from my saxophonist grandpa to rock-singing mom, but by taking a classical turn with my love for the organ and starting a career based in the subject my track is unique.

As an organist/parish musician, I often work closely with both church staff and volunteers to plan and perform at special events with little notice, like a recent Trunk-or-Treat event or rapidly approaching Christmas pageant. I also independently plan and prepare organ and piano music for weekly Sunday solo and accompaniment use, having become very familiar with Episcopal resources like the Hymnal 1982. Each of these skills, blending focused independent work with good communication and teamwork, have taught me how to both lead the congregation and serve to benefit the desires of the community.

In the future, I can see a path where I end up focusing on a geoscience-related career (my other major) but apply my expertise in the organ to hold a job similar to what I do now. With competency in accompaniment and numerous hymns memorized, the time I'm spending in this role will make it very easy for me to be prepared to serve as a parish organist in the future whether I remain at St. Michael's or pursue a different opportunity in the future.