Kurt Knecht is a composer, organist, and conductor currently living in Lincoln, Nebraska. His compositions have been described as “funky” and “joyous” in the Washington Post, and the American Record Guide has called him a “fresh voice.” 

Knecht’s compositions have become a staple of the modern choral festival literature, having been performed on All-state and ACDA concerts in over fifteen states. Recent performances of his compositions include international performances at festivals and concerts in Germany, the Netherlands, Singapore, Canada, Mexico, and a performance at the Kennedy Center by the Grammy award-winning Washington Chorale. 

Knecht received the ASCAP Plus award from the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. 

As an eclectic performer, Knecht has been a featured soloist with groups ranging from Smokey Robinson to The Florida Orchestra. Kurt also regularly appears as a concert organist. He has served as an accompanist to many of the nations leading choral conductors, having performed in concert with Jo-Michael Scheibe, Jerry McCoy, Doreen Rao, Andre Thomas, Kevin Fenton, Robert Summer, and Therees Hibbard. 

Knecht received a Bachelor of Music from the University of Tampa with concentrations in piano performance and theory, a Master of Music in composition from Southern Methodist University, and a Doctor of Musical Arts in composition with a minor in organ performance from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. He is currently the organist and choir director at St. Mark's on the Campus Episcopal church in Lincoln.