A native of California, Steven Skinner has served as Minister of Music and Worship at First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant since the fall of 1995. He earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from the University of the Pacific at Stockton, CA and a Master of Music degree in Church Music from Biola University at La Mirada, CA. Steve has served as an organist and minister of music for 30 years in Baptist, Grace Brethren, and Presbyterian Churches.
He has also taught music at the elementary, undergraduate, and graduate levels.

In addition to excellent skills as an accomplished musician, Steve also has extensive experience as an organ builder. He has worked on numerous major organ rebuilding projects throughout California. He also designed and supervised the construction of the organ in McBrier Chapel and has overseen a major upgrade to the Vicary Organ in the sanctuary at First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant.

Steve plans and coordinates the worship services at First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant where he skillfully integrates traditional and contemporary elements of sacred music to actualize
 "Where tradition comes to life!"

Steve’s responsibilities also include maintaining the extensive musical properties. He oversees the wide-ranging music program that includes graded handbell and vocal choirs for all ages. The Music Ministry has room for beginners, intermediates, and advanced musicians of all ages.

See the Music page for much more information about music opportunities at
First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant.

Steve is married to the former Carol Nixon and they have three sons:
Nathan, a member of the adjunct teaching staff
at Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts,
Jared, a graduate of Messiah College in Grantham, Pennsylvania,
and Andrew, a Music Education Major at Gordon College.