Prelude on "Intercessor"

Arthur D. (for Dakota!) Rhea (b. 1919) was my only "real" teacher. He was on the faculty of the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, where I received, for what they are worth, my bachelor's and master's degrees. He is a native of Pittsburgh, and attended Yale as a composition student of Paul Hindemith. He was a student and protégé of harpsichordist Ralph Kirkpatrick. He served as Director of Music at historic Bruton Parish Church in Williamsburg Virginia for 11 years, before coming to the Church of the Redeemer in Baltimore, where he served for 21 years. After his "retirement" he served at Trinity Cathedral in Easton, Md. for several years, as well as at another parish, before returning to Baltimore with his wife, Dolly, who made the world's greatest ham sandwich!
At one time, I was as close to Mr. Rhea (I never called him Arthur) as if I had been his 4th son. I studied with him during my entire time at Peabody, and learned a LOT from him. Not all that much about "playing the organ," but about being the best musician that I could be. He encouraged me to "do things in my own way," which may have helped my creativity but NOT my technique.
Upon graduation with my bachelor's, I was offered a cathedral position, which Mr. Rhea suggested I decline, stay in Baltimore, get my masters, and be his assistant at the Church of the Redeemer - which I did...
Regardless, I have nothing but respect, love, devotion, and MANY fond memories of him!
He's a unforgettable guy and still going stong at 95!!!