Paul Manz Tickets

Paul Manz (born 1919 in Cleveland, Ohio) was a distinguished American organist, composer, and church musician known for his lifelong commitment to liturgical excellence. As chief cantor and director of church music at Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, Manz helped shape a generation of congregational singing through hymn festivals, improvisations, and a prolific body of organ chorales and partitas. His Advent motet E’en So, Lord Jesus, Quickly Come (1953) remains a landmark work, celebrated for its reverent momentum and musical clarity.

Manz’s influence extended beyond performance, earning recognition from major musical and church organizations. He was named one of the 101 Most Notable Organists of the 20th Century by the American Guild of Organists (AGO), and he received the Gutenberg Award and the Wittenberg Arts Award. Honorary doctorates from Valparaiso University and St. Olaf College further attest to his impact on sacred music. In 2011, he was inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame posthumously.

Today, listeners and performers continue to revisit his work through posthumous releases that spotlight his improvisational skill and liturgical sensitivity, including Hymn Improvisations Vol. 1–3 and live recital collections such as Paul Manz at Mount Olive and Paul Manz Vol. 1/2 (all released around 2016). Although there are no official social media accounts maintained by Paul Manz, MorningStar Music Publishers hosts product pages and related content that connect fans with his musical legacy.

Upcoming opportunities to experience Paul Manz’s influence in contemporary programming can be found through church music organizations, organ festivals, and academic venues that celebrate historic sacred repertoire and organ improvisation. While Manz himself is not performing live in the current era, festivals and programs often feature works from his extensive catalog, continuing his pedagogical and musical legacy across the United States. Secure your seats at performances that honor his contribution to North American church music and organ artistry.