After many years in the music world of teaching, directing and accompanying, Randi Rokke has released her first recording, entitled “Tell the Story.” The CD is a collection of 17 well-known hymns performed by her on solo piano. All of the hymns are original arrangements by Randi which she has done as a tribute for her family members, various people and occasions through the years. The album was recorded at Catamount Studio in Cedar Falls.
“It is interesting how music can remind me of a particular person, an event or places I have been,” said Rokke. “That is what I have enjoyed about making this CD. All the songs have a story that goes with them. 'Tell the story' is a collection of 17 hymns that I have arranged for solo piano."
Rokke has been involved in music since she was quite young. She spent many of her early years in Brazil and then moved to North Dakota where she graduated from Bismarck High School. Following high school, Randi received her music education at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. While there she studied under several voice and piano instructors. She also sang in the Concordia Concert Choir under the direction of Paul J. Christianson. She was part of the choir as it toured the United States and Norway. Randi graduated in 1979, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree with majors in both music education and religion.
Currently Randi and her husband, Pastor Doug Rokke, live in La Porte City, Iowa. They have served congregations in Driscoll, Mott and Williston ND. Doug and Randi are the parents of three children, Marti, Nelson and Kirsten. Through the years Randi has directed children choirs, youth choirs, men’s choirs and SATB choirs. She has arranged hymns and several choral anthems to fit the sound of her choirs. Randi has taught more than 400 individuals, children and adults, sharing her love of music. Currently, Randi has 44 students that she teaches out of her home studio. Randi’s piano skills have also been shared at many Weddings and Funerals in all of the congregations they have served. She feels privileged to share her musical gifts as a ministry for people during their times of ‘greatest joys and deepest sorrows.’
The recording on this CD is something that Randi has thought about doing for years. At the urging of her family and other friends she finally recorded this one. Her second recording, entitled “Joy” is a collection of 13 Christmas hymns done on solo piano. She plans to release this album in November 2009.
Randi’s “Tell the Story” CD is available for purchase at Nature’s Corner, 201 W 4th St., Vinton or at randirokke.com. You may also contact Randi by email at randijo@netins.net .
