Carl Marucci

Director of Music Ministry  -   Email

Carl's journey is one filled with diverse experiences. Hailing recently from New York City, his musical journey commenced at the age of nine, growing into a talent as an organist, pianist, conductor, and choirmaster. He assumed the mantle of organist and choirmaster in various churches and cathedrals beginning at eleven and embarked on his teaching career at the age of thirteen.


His gifts grew under the tutelage of such mentors as Vincent LaSelva (orchestral conducting, Juilliard), James Harrington (organ, Marywood University), and piano under Liz Huang (Juilliard), Veda Zuponcic (Rowan University), Anne Liva (Marywood University) and Mary Jefferson. He founded the Jubilate Deo Chorale & Orchestra, a symphony orchestra of 75 musicians and a chorus of 90 voices, where he wielded the baton as conductor and music director until moving to NYC. The illustrious stages of Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and NYC’s famed Rainbow Room are included among Carl’s performance venues. He also performed before royal audiences and dignitaries that include the Queen of Belgium and the Presidents of Poland, Philippines, Nicaragua, Argentina, and at United Nations Headquarters in New York City.

Carl’s endeavors extend beyond the realm of music, intertwining with the tapestry of philanthropy and diplomacy. He orchestrated monumental fundraising campaigns, including the American Idol’s iconic "Idol Gives Back" campaign initiative (raising more than $82 million), head of philanthropy for Steven A. Cohen’s (owner, Mets baseball team) charity which provides vital mental health services to veterans and military families nationwide; as well as for the Vatican itself. His tenure as executive director at the Vatican's Path to Peace Foundation in New York City, coupled with his diplomatic role representing the Vatican at the United Nations, culminated in planning the historic visit of Pope John Paul II, an event for which he received accolades from the United States Secret Service and the honor of knighthood from the Vatican.


Amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, Carl embarked on a new chapter, relocating to Fleming Island, FL, where he served as the music director, choirmaster, and organist in Jacksonville. His musical endeavors also include collaborations with the Jacksonville Symphony, Jacksonville Symphony Chorus and local universities. In 2024 Carl assumed the Director of Music Ministries & Organist role at St. Monica’s Episcopal Church, in Naples, FL.


In his personal life, Carl is an avid motorcyclist, and finds his greatest blessing in the enduring 23-year relationship with his husband, Drew. Together, they preside over a menagerie comprising Bella the boxer and Rocco the charismatic Major Mitchell's Cockatoo. 

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