RALPH HOLTZHAUSER is a distinguished organist and pedagogue celebrated for his versatile performances, commitment to engaging new audiences, and dynamic collaborations across diverse musical genres. With a career spanning over twenty-six years as a liturgical musician, Ralph has held prominent positions at churches across Ohio, culminating in his appointment as the Diocesan Music Director for the Diocese of Youngstown and Music Director of the Cathedral of St. Columba in 2022. In these roles, he oversees all music programs within the diocese and cathedral, significantly shaping the sacred music landscape of the region. In 2023, he was appointed Professor of Organ in the Sacred Music Program at the Franciscan University of Steubenville, where he presently leads a vibrant organ studio, preparing the next generation of organists for both sacred and concert settings.

 

Ralph enjoys an international concert career with performances in some of the world’s most notable venues, including St. Eustache and Ste. Clotilde in Paris, France; the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and National City Christian Church in Washington, D.C.; the Cathedral of St. Paul in Pittsburgh; and the Church of the Covenant in Cleveland.

 

In addition to his classical organ recitals, Ralph has ventured into a variety of other musical genres. He has collaborated with three-time Grammy-winning jazz trumpet player Graham Breedlove at the Kennedy Center and recorded progressive rock with the band Earthside at the First Congregational Church of Los Angeles, home to the world’s largest church organ.

 

Ralph’s musical journey began at the age of two when he started playing the piano, and by five, he was already performing full masses on the organ every weekend. He earned his undergraduate degree in organ performance under the tutelage of Dr. Maggie Scharf and Nicole Keller, as well as a degree in composition with Dr. Clint Needham at Baldwin Wallace University. In 2022, Ralph completed his Master of Music in organ performance at the Cleveland Institute of Music, studying with world-renowned organist Todd Wilson, where he developed an abiding interest in the French organ school.

 

Ralph is currently preparing a recording of African American organ music, set for release next year, highlighting works by African American composers, many of whom have never before been recorded. Outside of his musical pursuits, Ralph enjoys spending time outdoors and attending jazz concerts.