He served multiple terms as both Sub Dean and Dean of the Grand Rapids Chapter of the American Guild of Organists.
Dr. John E. Hamersma
Dr. John E. Hamersma grew up in Clifton, New Jersey. He attended Eastern Academy, graduating at the age of 16, and went on to Calvin College to pursue his undergraduate degree. During his junior year at Calvin, he began teaching at the college.
Following graduation, Dr. Hamersma began his studies at Union Theological Seminary in New York City, where he earned both a master’s degree and a Doctor of Sacred Music degree. While at Union Seminary, he served as Director of Music for the seminary’s Sunday worship services from 1957 to 1960, directing a professional choir.
Dr. Hamersma also served churches in New Jersey, Michigan, and Germany. After serving two years in the United States Army, he returned to Calvin College, where he served with distinction for 50 years, becoming one of the longest-serving professors in the history of the college.
Throughout his career, Dr. Hamersma was active both in West Michigan and across the country as a recitalist, consultant, educator, and contributor to numerous publications and projects. Among his notable contributions was editor of Hymns for Youth and serving on the 10-year committee that produced the 1987 Psalter Hymnal. He also served on the founding boards of Opera Grand Rapids and of the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus and was instrumental in founding the Symposium on Worship and Church Music at Calvin College and Seminary. He served multiple terms as both Sub Dean and Dean of the Grand Rapids Chapter of the American Guild of Organists.
One of his proudest achievements is the success of his organ performance students holding positions at the American Cathedral in Paris, the National Cathedral in D.C., the Air Force Academy, and the Musikhoegskolan music conservatory in Sweden. Other students served churches in West Michigan and elsewhere.
Through his teaching, scholarship, musical leadership, and service to the church, Dr. Hamersma made a lasting contribution to the musical and worship life of Calvin College, West Michigan, and the broader Christian community.
John and June Hamersma Music Fund
The John and June Hamersma First Friday Recital Series was established in 2026 for the glory of God and His worship thereof through the excellent performance of sacred music in a sacred context.
The associated fund, named in honor of two parishioners who devoted their lives to the musical, intellectual, and ecumenical flourishing of greater Grand Rapids, directly supports this recital series as well as the needs of the Sacred Heart music program.