Sitting placidly at the organ bench wearing his neat gray slacks, outrageous tie and warm smile, Dave Messineo commands the power to immerse the University's chapel in reverberating resonance with a touch of his hand.
The University chapel's new organist grew up in a family of musicians. His father was a jazz musician. One of his uncles was a pianist, another a clarinetist. His aunt was an organist.
Not surprisingly, Messineo began studying music at age four and quickly developed a passion for the organ. As much as he adored the instrument, however, Messineo said he was not immediately sure he wanted to pursue a career in music.
Instead, he attended Columbia University, where he studied biology and hoped eventually to become a doctor.
But after only one semester, Messineo — feeling daring — auditioned for the Julliard School of Music and was accepted.
He withdrew from Columbia but remained uncertain about pursuing a future as a musician. He was determined, however, to seize the opportunity Julliard offered him. And 12 years and three degrees later, Messineo emerged a musician.
While his instrumental skills have led to some remarkable experiences — including appearances at Radio City Music Hall with Frank Sinatra and Liberace — Messineo said he has been careful to set aside time to pursue other interests.
He races sailboats every summer, takes pleasure in building organs and relishes antique automobiles.
Though hardly settled into his new niche at Princeton, Messineo's name is already becoming well-known by some at the University.
Penna Rose, director of chapel music, coordinates performances with Messineo and describes him as "an accomplished organist and a fine musician who is comfortable in many styles of music."
Rinaldo Martinez '04, a member of the Chapel Choir, said he always looks forward to rehearsals and Sunday services, when Messineo accompanies the choir on the organ.
"He's extremely talented — the way he plays his music is beautiful and amazing. He's also very charismatic and personable," Martinez said.
Associate Dean of Religious Life Deborah Blanks added, "He's the type of person who's always warm and caring."
Messineo said he hopes his wide musical repertoire will "broaden views, raise expectations and add diversity" to the University.
He has already started Princeton's first handbell choir and is playing the accompaniment to the silent film "The Phantom of the Opera," which will be shown Oct. 20 in the chapel.
For Messineo, playing the organ is a way to promote spirituality at Princeton. "Music is a constant spiritual journey, a cerebral challenge," he said, his friendly smile wider than ever.
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