We are thrilled to welcome two talented musicians into the PCM family. Please read their bios below and make sure to give them a warm greeting on Sunday!
Dr. Ben Riggs | Interim Director of Adult Music
Dr. Ben Riggs is a conductor with extensive experience leading community, school, and church choirs. Ben joined The Presbyterian Church in Morristown as Interim Director of Adult Music in August 2025.
Before moving to NJ, Ben was the Minister of Music (2018-2025) at St. John’s Episcopal Church of Oakland (CA), where he directed adult, children, and youth choruses and accompanied worship services. In years past he held Director of Music posts at Richfield United Methodist Church (MN), Atonement Lutheran Church (CO), Christ Church United Methodist (CO), and Wellshire Presbyterian Church (CO).
For nearly two decades Ben has conducted large Tenor-Bass choruses as Artistic Director of Denver Gay Men’s Chorus (CO), Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus (MN), and Oakland Gay Men’s Chorus (CA). Equally proficient in conducting SATB choruses, Ben recently concluded a six-year tenure as Artistic Director of Resound Ensemble (CA).
Ben holds a Bachelor of Music in piano from Wheaton College Conservatory of Music, a Master of Music in choral conducting from the University of Colorado-Boulder, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Choral Literature and Performance from the University of Colorado-Boulder. Ben lives in Jersey City, NJ, with his husband, the Rev. John F. Dwyer, and their 3-year-old Bernedoodle, Hudson.
Madelyn Ortiz | Interim Director of Children’s Music
Maddie Ortiz is a passionate music educator and lifelong chorister who is so excited to make music with the children of PCM. A recent graduate of Drew University, she holds both a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Studio Art, along with New Jersey K–12 Music Education and Art Education certifications. Throughout her studies, she gained extensive experience in general music and choral settings, teaching students from PreK through middle school. Most recently, she served as a Choir and Keyboard Leave Replacement Teacher at Pequannock Middle School.
At Drew, Ortiz served as the Chorale Assistant, where she conducted rehearsals, prepared music, and supported ensembles in performance. Her senior capstone combined her skills in composition and conducting through an original a cappella choral work. She was recognized with the 2024 CLA Music Award for her achievements in research, performance, and composition. Beyond academics, she revitalized the Drew University Music Society, expanding opportunities for student involvement in music.
With deep roots in choral singing since childhood and active experience as a seasonal church singer, Ortiz brings a strong foundation in sacred music and an understanding of its spiritual role in worship. She is eager to combine her artistry, teaching expertise, and faith to inspire children at The Presbyterian Church in Morristown.
