Dr. Nathan Carter was synonymous with Morgan State University and music. For thirty years he championed for Morgan State University and more specifically, the university
choir, which while under his watch, enjoyed international acclaim as it spread musical excellence throughout the world. Passing away in 2004, Carter also served as Minister of Music at his brother, Dr. Harold Carter’s church, New Shiloh Baptist Church and founded the New Shiloh School of Music, later changed to the Nathan Carter School of Music after his death. Newly appointed and serving in the maestro’s footsteps is musician extraordinaire, Victor Simonson, who stepped into the esteemed spot as Minister of Music and Music Consultant at the Baltimore institution.

Recently completing a successful three-year national tour of Oprah Winfrey’s “The Color Purple” as the Associate Conductor, Simonson is renowned as a multi-genre musician, bringing Broadway theatre experience to the legacy of Gospel, Negro Spirituals, Sacred, Contemporary, Urban, Classical, and Jazz Christian music, mixed with a flavor of his own compositions and original arrangements to the ministry. Proficient on piano, organ and keyboard, one of Simonson’s first projects was a musical written in honor of the pastor in celebration of 45 New Shiloh years. The event was performed recently to a capacity house of 3000 people.

“It is an honor to serve in the legacy of Dr. Nathan Carter. Everyone knows of his passion for music. I look forward to the challenge of bringing the art of music in a new way.”, stated Simonson who prays he will live up to the legacy of the deceased Carter. The New York native also served as Music Director for "Three Mo' Tenors, Boys Choir of Harlem, and Brooklyn; The Musical, hailing him as the youngest African American Music Director for a Broadway-bound show.

My ability was also called to the stone when I wrote the play, "Called to Preach" reflecting pastor Dr. Harold Carter's life.”, the New Yorker native continued. The play included dramatic readings, acting, and music throughout. 

"It was really a musical tribute,"  Simonson stated as he talked about this debut work. A full orchestra, actors, professional vocalists and Morgan State University Choir members and alum also participated in the showcase. 

To hear Simonson tickle the ivories at New Shiloh, visit any one of the three services, held on Sundays, 8:30 am, 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. The church is located at 2100 North Monroe Street, Harold A. Carter Way, Baltimore, MD 21217 Phone: (410) 523-5306.  Access the church’s website at Click here or Simonson directly at his website Click here.