Artist • Composer • Lyricist • Publisher
With their lyrical melodies, distinctive treatments, and timeless messages, Elizabeth Ragsdale’s vocal solos and hymn medleys are comfort music for performer and listener alike. The wide-ranging styles and accessible scores make these pieces ideal for church musicians who want to explore new music with minimal preparation.
As a lifelong learner, Elizabeth has expanded on her university music studies with online courses and private instruction. The piano has been her constant companion through careers in teaching, publishing, and art. The meticulous aesthetic she has honed as a book designer is evident in her beautifully crafted compositions.
As music co-chair at her church, Elizabeth recognized the need for vocal and instrumental music that speaks to contemporary audiences while honoring tradition. Fun to perform and inspiring to hear, her vocal solos feature memorable melodies, clear notation, and sight-readability. She writes most of her lyrics, reflecting an in-depth study of Christian literature.
Each of her hymn medleys includes at least one hymn from the Christian Science Hymnal and one or more tunes in a variety of genres such as classical, pop, folk, and gospel. A wide variety of styles are woven together in cohesive yet surprising ways. Numerous transition points in the medleys allow the church musician to readily meet the needs of any service.
Elizabeth lives in Madison, Wisconsin, and loves to dance and draw almost as much as she loves to write music. She dedicates these compositions to her mother, who supported her every creative endeavor.