Musicians

We are fortunate to have an incredibly talented group of musicians who add life, depth, and joy to our Sunday Services.  Most of the Spirit United musicians are professional performers and can be found in a variety of musical venues around the Twin Cities, the Midwest, the United States, and in other countries.

We invite you to come and share the music with us!

Bios

Gregg Marquardt

Gregg is a versatile singer with 30 years of experience. Skilled in classical and jazz styles, he has professional experience with classical chorus, jazz trio, vocal jazz quartet and big band.

He began with training and performance in classical voice. Soon, however, he transitioned into jazz, modeling his voice after the great male singers from Mel Tormé and Frank Sinatra to contemporaries Mark Murphy and Kurt Elling. He has performed at many Minnesota venues, has been a vocalist on a number of CDs, and released his vocal jazz album Starting Point in 2001.

Gregg's objective as a singer is to develop his voice as a combo instrument. For example, when he sings with three instrumentalists, he isn't a vocalist backed up by a trio but, rather, a member of a quartet. Along that pathway, he's also honored to make his creativity a part of the Spirit United experience.

Katherine Murphy

Katherine Murphy's relationship with music began when she was still in the womb.  As the daughter of an accomplished pianist/singer/church musician, she doesn't remember a time when music was not a part of her life.  She has played the piano since before she has a conscious memory.  Katherine has a bachelor's degree in music education with a focus on vocal performance, choral conducting, and piano accompaniment.  She has taught music from kindergarten through college levels, including chorus, band, and private vocal lessons.  Just before finishing a Master's in choral conducting, she changed careers and completed a Master's in counseling instead.  Katherine has performed with, soloed with and conducted numerous choruses.  Most recently, she has taken up the autoharp and is grateful for the opportunity to express her spirituality in the wonderful and unique music that is brought to life at Spirit United.