Stephen Distad

Stephen Distad is a nationally recognized organist and church musician living in Houston, Texas. In addition to his concertizing, Mr. Distad serves as Artist in Residence at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church. 

Before coming to Houston, Mr. Distad served as Minister of Music at First Baptist Church in Charleston, South Carolina, Director of Music at Christ United Methodist Church in Rochester, Minnesota, and Organist at First United Methodist Church in Shreveport, Louisiana. Stephen has performed in numerous notable and historical locations such as St. Thomas Episcopal in New York, St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, and Notre Dame in Paris. 

Mr. Distad received his bachelor’s degree from Drake University, his masters from Baylor University, and post-graduate studies at the Eastman School of Music. His organ teachers include Robert E. Scaggin, Carl Staplin, Guy Bovet, Joyce Jones, and David Higgs. Mr. Distad also studied under Marie-Claire Alain at the Conservatoire de Rueill-Malmasison in Paris. 

Mr. Distad is also known for his annual "Phantom of the Organ” concert, which includes elaborate multi- media effects and continues to draw large and diverse crowds after over 20 years. The event has been held in various locations around the United States.