hilip Swanson has been Music Director of The First Congregational Church since 1991. He conducts the choir (16-20) weekly from September - June, is the organist and pianist, and organizes a concert series of guest artists. Dr. Swanson received his Doctor of Musical Arts degree from New England Conservatory and Master of Music degree from the Eastman School. In addition to his duties at the church, he is active as a trombonist, pianist, organist, conductor, and composer in the Boston area, and has performed with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Boston Pops, Boston Lyric Opera, Boston Ballet, and many other orchestral and chamber ensembles.

Dr. Swanson is an Assistant Professor of Music at Salem State College where he teaches music theory, piano, and conducts a chamber choir. He is also the Director of the jazz program at the Waring School in Beverly, MA. He has appeared on numerous CD's as a trombonist, pianist, organist and composer in many genres, including classical, pop, and jazz.

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