Tom Bailey, internationally renowned organist, will play in the spring concert of the Commonwealth Chorale.

A native of Virginia he received his degrees from VCU with teachers Lawrence Robinson and Ardyth Lohuis. He then moved to Vienna, Austria, where he began studies with the famed Bach authority Anton Heiller. While there he began an extensive concert career including playing the Poulenc organ concerto in the St. Florian's Monastery on the famous “Bruckner Organ.” Other performances in Austria, Munich, Germany and further work in Cambridge England showcased his skills.

Upon returning to the United States he began a 35-year career as music director/organist. His breadth of experience includes directing professional choirs, treble choirs and orchestras. He also inaugurated Bach festivals and organ concert series. His performances in D.C., San Francisco, Long Island and the Richmond area have been most successful.

Bailey will perform as soloist and accompanist in the Beethoven Mass in C that are the spring concerts of the Commonwealth Chorale. Performances are April 21 at 3 p.m. at Crenshaw United Church, Blackstone, and April 28 at 3 p.m. at Farmville United Methodist Church.