In addition to giving solo recitals in North America, Europe, and Asia, Mr. Diaz has given the world premiere performances and recordings of two organ and orchestra works by Pulitzer Prize winning composers. In 2002 he appeared with the Dallas Symphony in the premiere of Joseph Schwantner’s September Canticle, which he later recorded for Hyperion Records on a CD that made Fanfare magazine’s “Best of 2006” list. In 1994 he premiered Gunther Schuller’s Concerto for Organ and Orchestra with the Calgary Philharmonic, which was recorded for New World Records. He has also recorded a solo CD at the Meyerson Symphony Center for Delos International.

Mr. Diaz is a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Michigan, and holds the master’s degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music. He studied organ with Robert Glasgow, Todd Wilson, and Karel Paukert. He is the Organist and Choirmaster of Saint Michael and All Angels Church in Dallas, one of the largest Episcopal churches in the United States.

Press Quotes:

“His playing was assured, elegant, and beautifully paced…this recital was the highlight of [the American Guild of Organists] convention.” –The American Organist

“James Diaz delivers his organ part with eloquence and profundity.” –Classical.net

“Diaz played with technical brilliance, absolute interpretive control, a highly acute sense of organ registrations.” –The Diapason