Michael Schreffler
Michael Schreffler began his musical studies with piano lessons at the age of 9. While not especially attracted to the organ at first, a new instrument installed in the Methodist church in his hometown, and his grandmother’s encouragement to take some lessons over the summer following his senior year in high school, gave birth to a passion that continues to this day. While majoring in English at Allegheny College in Meadville, PA, he pursued organ studies with Rebecca Borthwick, performing a senior recital alongside completing his thesis in creative writing.
For 30 years, Michael worked as a casualty claims adjuster for the State Farm group of companies, all the while continuing as a church musician, serving various congregations in southwestern Pennsylvania and northwestern and central Ohio. His organ teachers have also included Craig Dobbins, John Walker, Robert Glasgow, and he currently studies with Richard Fitzgerald.
In January 2022, Michael was appointed organist for St. Mark’s Episcopal in Upper Arlington and recently accompanied the St. Mark’s choir under the direction of Matthew Bester for their choral residency at Wells Cathedral in the United Kingdom. Prior positions include First United Methodist of London, OH, and St. Lucas Lutheran (ELCA), Toledo. He holds memberships in the Association of Anglican Musicians and the American Guild of Organists, for which he serves on the board of its Columbus chapter. He and his husband, Rob Ellis, make their home in Columbus and have six grown children between them as well as six grandchildren.
