St. James Welcomes Choir Director Dr. Kevin Estes

Chris Miller (CM) Interview with St. James’ New Music Director & Organist Dr. Kevin Estes, MD (KE)

Choir member and local reporter, Chris Miller, recently had the pleasure of sitting down for a one-on-one conversation with our new Director of Music Ministries and Organist, Dr. Kevin Estes. This insightful interview provides a wonderful opportunity to get to know Dr. Estes as he steps into his new role as Choir Director. 

KE: I’m Kevin Estes and I’m the new music director at St. James Lutheran Church In Concord North Carolina. I grew up in Texas, lived a good part of my life in the New York City area, and then went to medical school.Traveled the Eastern Seaboard and have found myself in the Charlotte area. My wife and I have two high school age boys and we are very happy to be living in this area now.

CM: What intrigues you most about St. James and its music program?

KE: St. James has a very rich history in music and I am most impressed with the warm welcome that I’ve received here. It's an inviting energetic group – the choir that is – the congregation has also welcomed me even before they knew who I was I was fortunate enough to be able to worship with you a few times. The organ is a phenomenal instrument and I was fortunate enough to hear it in concert several years ago before I even knew that this would be my new future. 

CM: As a musician and choir director, what are you most passionate about? 

KE: I’m most passionate about leading congregation in their song. My major role is to provide an environment where the congregation can find connection to their worship through music – the hymnody of course as well as the song congregational responses. I'm also passionate about really good choral literature and I find a lot of energy from working with a choir as talented as this.

CM: What are your early thoughts about how to grow the music program going forward?

KE: I think one of the things you have to do is you have to be inviting and welcoming and you have to provide not only an environment where people can learn, where they can do their very best, feel comfortable, and all at the same time doing music that is valuable not only for the human experience – the spiritual experience as well. 

CM: How would you best describe yourself in three words? 

KE: Faithful – honest – loving. 

CM: Perfect, thank you. And now for a few fun quick fire questions: what's been the best thing about living in the Charlotte area for you and your family?

KE: Oh, the weather! The weather of course! After living in the Northeast and in the mountains and in south Florida. We love it being here. The people are awesome and very friendly.   

CM: What is one food that you cannot live without?

KE: ChexMix

CM: What is your favorite film and why? 

KE: I'm not a big film buff, but I will say the Star Wars – all the Star Wars because my boys love them so much and I enjoy watching with them. 

CM: Last question: if you could have any superpower what would it be and why?  

KE: Well the first thing that comes to mind is an answer I just gave is love – unfailing, non-judgmental love for all those I encounter. 

CM: Kevin, it is great to have you at St James thanks so much!