From August Unigram:

We are happy to introduce Dr. Irina Tchantceva as our new choir accompanist and pianist for Sunday services! Irina brings a range of musical gifts, flexibility and a joyful spirit to her work. She served for 28 years as music director for a UU congregation in Providence, Rhode Island—the Religious Society of Bell Street Chapel. (How’s that for a historic name!) Ministerial references have praised her piano skills and professionalism, kindness, collaborative spirit, responsiveness and broad repertoire. As the department chair for the Rhode Island Philharmonic Music School, Irina founded an Annual Piano Festival, Bach Festival, Summer Piano Workshop, and Contemporary Music Recital. Her doctorate in piano performance is from the Moscow State Conservatory and her bachelor’s and master’s degrees (with highest honors) are from the Yerevan State Conservatory in Armenia.

Irina and her husband moved to this area to be near their daughter. Irina will start playing for our services August 11, and a new season of Wednesday choir rehearsals starting this month. Thanks to those pianists who played the piano at our services in June and July: Linda Dawson, Nicholas Dold, and Jay Johnson.

The hiring committee interviewed five finalists, heard them play piano solos, and sang to their accompaniment. We were delighted with Irina’s wisdom and experience, good cheer, thoughtful presence, creative thinking about UU worship, and, of course, her musical skills. Many thanks to the committee: Rev. Lucy, Music Director Keith Atwater, Jim Eastman, Mary Howard, and me. Welcome, Irina!