John Derksen
Minister of Music

John has served as Minister of Music at Islington United since 1993. A westerner by birth, he attended the University of Manitoba before coming to the University of Toronto for doctoral studies.

John has responsibility to support all of our music ministries, which include junior, youth and senior choirs; junior, youth and senior bell choirs, as well as instrumental ensembles and special events. He directs and participates in the music for monthly Taizé worship, in addition to playing the organ and directing the music for all Sunday morning services. John is supported in his ministry by a large number of exceptionally talented and committed musicians and volunteers.

John and his wife Kristen have two sons, Ben and Sam. Together, they enjoy swimming and fishing in the summer. John has also come to enjoy watching hockey on TV with his sons. When time permits, he enjoys cooking, books and movies.

John works closely with the Music Committee which oversees the many musical activities of the church including the choirs, bell choirs, and chime ministry.

If you would like to contact John, his phone number is 416-239-1131 ext. 26, or send e-mail to: john@islingtonunited.org