Dexter “Tripp” Kennedy began as Director of Music at Trinity-by-the-Cove as Director of Music in September 2021. Before coming to Naples, he worked for seven years as the Assistant Director of Music and Organist of Christ Church in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan. In 2014 he won first prize in the Grand Prix de Chartres organ competition at Notre Dame in Paris, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious organ competitions. He is a well known organ recitalist, having performed throughout the United States and Europe. Tripp holds a Masters degree from Yale University, and an Artist Diploma and Bachelor’s from the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music.

What excites you about Trinity
Trinity-by-the-Cove is an amazing community full of friendliness, curiosity, intellect, and talent. The sense of hospitality both within the parish as well as the great work Trinity does in the community is inspiring to be a part of. I am lucky to be able to serve a congregation with such a history and appreciation of first rate sacred music!

What excites you about your ministry
Sacred music has been an integral part of Christian liturgy and worship for over 1,000 years. Therefore the music in liturgies must be chosen with intentionality so that all of the components of the worship service intertwine with one another to form a cohesive liturgy. As a musician, one is a lifelong learner, and this is also true about one’s faith journey. I take pride in using music as a vehicle for people to explore and elevate their own faith journeys.