Carol Williams

International concert organist and San Diego civic organist since 2001

What is Carol Williams known for?

Born in Great Britain, Dr. Carol Anne Williams is a renowned international concert organist and composer, and also an alumna of Valley Center High School in California. Starting her musical journey in a Welsh family, Williams was able to read music even before she could read English. She enhanced her skills at the Royal Academy of Music, impressively obtaining the academy's Recital Diploma along with the LRAM for both organ and piano. Williams was awarded all the significant prizes for organ performing during her studies. In addition to this, she has been a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists and Trinity College London, and an Associate of the Royal College of Music.

Williams continued to broaden her artistic horizons studying with Daniel Roth, the Organist at the Church of St. Sulpice, Paris, postgraduate study at Yale University, and doctoral study at Manhattan School of Music in New York City.

Moving to the United States, Carol Williams served as the Civic Organist for the city of San Diego, California, from October 2001 until her resignation in October 2016. In her long and committed service, she was not only the artistic director of the Spreckels Organ Society but also produced the largest organ festival in North America since 2001. Upon retiring from her post, she was awarded the title of San Diego Civic Organist Emerita.

Williams' love for the "King of Instruments" is clearly reflected by her contributions to music. She hosts 'TourBus,' a documentary series exploring the distinct pipe organs of the world, and 'On The Bench with Dr. Carol,' a YouTube talk show series where she interviews fellow musical artists.

Williams' global recognition is mirrored in the numerous places she has performed, such as Notre Dame, Paris; Walt Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles; Westminster Abbey; King's College, Cambridge; and Salisbury Cathedral to name a few.

Currently, Williams serves as the Artist in Residence at Peachtree Christian Church in Atlanta, Georgia, and the artistic director of Viscount North America.