Barbara Cramer Crouse ’66 Publishes Her Third Book
Barbara Cramer Crouse ’66 has added a new chapter to her remarkable creative journey with the publication of her third book, “By These I Am Formed.” It is a testament to her enduring passion for storytelling, her lifelong devotion to music, and her deep faith.
It’s a memoir and one chapter is called ‘Shenandoah Stress.’ That has a negative sound but actually is a positive since my experience there was a crucial part of my lifelong musical journey. I studied organ with Dean William J. Skeat and piano with Miss Elizabeth Temple. Both of them were important parts of my life. President Forrest Racey also bent over backwards to help me as I struggled with transferring from another conservatory and losing many of my credits. I am forever indebted to all three of those special people.”
A career musician now in her 80s and “almost retired,” Crouse reflects on the blessing of being raised in the Christian faith by her parents. That foundation has guided her through decades of teaching, performing, and writing. Her newest book chronicles how, as she matured, she developed her musical talent while working through physically painful challenges –– all while continuing to do what she loved: teaching piano students and performing on her beloved instruments, including piano, organ, and concert harp.
Barbara’s voice first reached readers in the 1970s and early ’80s, when she published numerous articles and essays in religious periodicals. More than 20 years later, she returned to writing with renewed purpose. Her first book, “Letting God Happen,” was designed for personal or group study. The following year, she released a young adult novelette, “The Whole Summer to Practice!”
