Marquis Who's Who Honors Robert Lau for Excellence in Music and Education
Press Release March 3, 2026
Robert Lau is recognized for decades of outstanding contributions at the intersection of music and education as well as hundreds of original choral and keyboard works
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His creative output is prolific; he has published 670 choral and keyboard works with major music publishers across the United States.

MECHANICSBURG, PA, March 03, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Robert Lau has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Dr. Lau's distinguished career as a musician and composer is marked by decades of creative achievement, leadership and service to the musical arts. Most recently, he has served as an organist and choirmaster at Mt. Calvary Episcopal Church in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, where his expertise in sacred music and choral direction has enriched the worship experience for the congregation. Drawing upon his extensive background in both performance and composition, he has continued a legacy of excellence that spans multiple denominations and communities.

Along with his role at Mt. Calvary, Dr. Lau excelled as the music director for the Harrisburg Choral Society and Jubilate Chorale, where he led ensembles in enchanting performances that showcased both classical repertoire and contemporary works. His leadership extended beyond conducting as he fostered musical growth among singers and promoted widespread community engagement through the arts.

Dr. Lau's academic career has been equally impactful. He dedicated more than 20 years to Lebanon Valley College as a professor of music, earning the distinction of professor emeritus. During his tenure, he chaired the school's music department for 11 years, guiding curriculum development and mentoring countless students who have gone on to make their own contributions to the field. Additionally, he served as an adjunct professor of music at Pennsylvania State University at Harrisburg for 20 years, further broadening his impact on higher education in Pennsylvania.

A further reflection of his commitment to advancing standards in church music and supporting his fellow composers, Dr. Lau has maintained active memberships in leading industry organizations such as the American Guild of Organists and the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP).

Dr. Lau's creative output is prolific; he has published 670 choral and keyboard works with major music publishers across the United States, with his compositions being commissioned by more than 100 churches, individuals and institutions nationwide. Notably, one of his pieces was performed at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome — a milestone that underscored the global reach of his music — and later sung by a small group on a Native American reservation in New Mexico, an experience that deeply moved him.

Hailing from an equally accomplished educational foundation, Dr. Lau earned a Doctor of Philosophy in musicology from The Catholic University of America, a Master of Arts in music theory from the Eastman School of Music, and a Bachelor of Science in music education from Lebanon Valley College. He also completed graduate coursework at Teachers College of Columbia University and Westminster Choir College, further refining his skills as an educator and musician.

Looking back on his storied journey to date, Dr. Lau is immensely grateful for the longstanding support he has received from a meaningful relationship spanning more than four decades. Central to both his personal and professional success, this partnership provided him with encouragement during times when societal acceptance was limited, reinforcing the values of professionalism and integrity that have guided him throughout his life.

Beyond his formal roles, Dr. Lau's civic engagement includes chairing the scholarship music committee for The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) in Harrisburg. His dedication to service is also evident through volunteer work at retirement villages, where he has played music for residents over many years and contributed to committees focused on spiritual life and educational programming.

Also devoted to the ideals of education within sacred music circles, Dr. Lau is the author of the 2010 book "A Practical Approach to Improvisation for the Church Organist." Published by Paraclete Press, this work is an accessible guide for organists seeking to create original music for the purposes of worship. He regularly conducts workshops and clinics throughout the United States, sharing his insights on improvisation, choral techniques and church musicianship.

Widely celebrated for his impact as both a composer and educator, Dr. Lau has received 15 Special Awards from ASCAP for his contributions to published choral and keyboard music. Lebanon Valley College honored him with an Alumni Citation as well as the Creative Achievement Award, accolades that reflect his enduring influence on campus life and beyond. Furthermore, Theatre Harrisburg presented him with its Distinguished Service Award to the Arts in the Capital Region, while his induction into the Lebanon County Musicians Hall of Fame celebrates his origins in the area where he was born and raised.

Before he went on to achieve significant milestones as an organist, Dr. Lau gained valuable early musical experience rooted in performances as a violinist and violist. During his youth, he played at shows that also featured celebrated artists such as Johnny Mathis and Liberace, serving as concertmaster for both the Pennsylvania State Orchestra and the Harrisburg Youth Symphony during his high school years.

On a personal level, Dr. Lau is a deeply devoted family man as the proud father of two children, grandfather of five and great-grandfather of one. He enjoys hobbies such as reading and traveling throughout Europe — particularly Italy and France — both of which continue to inspire his artistic pursuits.

Looking toward the future, Dr. Lau remains passionate about composing new works and contributing meaningfully to both public worship services and private moments through the power of music. With an unwavering commitment to excellence recognized by performers, teaching colleagues and students alike, he intends to continue composing and performing as long as he is able — serving others through his artistry while upholding the highest standards of professionalism instilled throughout his remarkable life journey.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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