By Mary Owen
Linda Allen knew years ago she would reside in the Northwest. She just didn’t know where exactly or what she would do when she got here.
“From the first glimpses I had of the beautiful Northwest region, a strong premonition pervaded in my life that someday I would no longer be living in my home state of Colorado, but would reside in either Washington or Oregon,” Allen said.
Her premonition became a reality after earning three degrees: bachelor’s of music, bachelor’s of music education, and master’s of music.
“Today, I can say I have fulfilled that foretelling by having lived several years in the Seattle area and now recently becoming a resident of Silverton,” said Allen, who took over as choir director and organist for the Silverton United Methodist Church in September.
Many vacations drew Allen and her husband, Ted, to Oregon. One memorable trip was to the Silverton area about five years ago, she said.
“We thought the town was charming and the surrounding attractions very appealing,” she said. “Little did we know then that we would be calling this town home.”
Allen hopes to recruit more talented high school and young adult vocalists and instrumentalists in her new role, she said.
“Through the generosity of an anonymous donor and church funding, the Silverton United Methodist Church has the opportunity to offer internships and special services engagements to these budding musicians,” she added. “Additionally, in the future I hope to organize an ecumenical community choral event as I become acquainted with other Silverton church music directors that may have a similar interest.”
When not acting in a church musician capacity, Allen teaches piano, organ and music theory, offering private lessons and coaching. She teaches all levels of students age seven to adult.
“It’s a joy to see people discover their creative side,” Allen said. “We so need to foster this in our society. It starts with each individual. We are at peace when we engage in the arts.”
Her greatest joy is making music with others and sharing it, she added.
Allen looks forward to spending many years in Silverton. She and her husband plan to make frequent outings to explore The Oregon Garden, the coast and the mountains.
“Where my husband’s love and pursuit of macro-photography will flourish,” she said.
Allen invites anyone interested in participating in musical offerings to arrange for an audition, interview and discussion of possibilities. She can be reached at the church office, 203 W. Main St., or 503-873-6517.
