SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Almost a year ago, Pat “Patty” McDaniel, then Elks 6 Second-Year Trustee, reported in the Lodge’s weekly bulletin:

“In California’s North Central District, only two of nine Elks lodges enjoy live organ music, thanks to Chuck Shumate of Carmichael Lodge #2103 and Dan Baldassari of Sacramento Lodge #6.

Shumate, 101, an Army veteran and Elk for 39 years, is likely the oldest organist in Northern California. Baldassari, 50, began as a trumpet player under Hammond Concert Artist Tom Thompson. A recent meeting after Shumate’s performance highlighted their shared mastery of the organ; an instrument demanding rare skill, coordination and lifelong dedication. Together, they represent a musical bridge between generations.”

At the time, Chuck Shumate had been an Elk for 40 years, while Daniel Baldassari (half Shumate’s age) had been an Elk for just two years. The two organists met at Shumate’s Carmichael Lodge. 

McDaniel added, “Baldassari is an anomaly among younger musicians; it takes years to master the intricate skills required to play the organ.”

In addition to serving as lodge organists, Shumate and Baldassari also served as lodge officers. At Elks #6, Baldassari provides musical selections from the Ritual of Special Services booklet, first published in 1925.

McDaniel noted, “This includes music for Elk celebrations such as Mother’s Day, various veterans’ occasions and even mortgage-burning ceremonies.”

Charles Shumate passed away on May 14, 2026, at the age of 102. Born on Nov. 11, 1923, he lived in Citrus Heights. Shumate was known for his resilience and devotion to family, raising four children and remaining active in the lives of his 20 grandchildren and more than 20 great-grandchildren.

Shortly before Shumate’s passing, Bryan Arthur “Smurf” Feldpouch, the California-Hawaii Elks Association (CHEA) organist for more than seven years, passed away at the end of April 2025 just prior to the CHEA Convention.

The Association requested that all 19 districts forward potential candidates for the state position. During the North Central District (NCD) District Deputy caucus, Robert Brotherton, who was a Grand Lodge Special Representative for Elks 6, suggested forwarding Baldassari’s name for consideration. Brotherton contacted Baldassari to confirm his interest.

“He was excited to be considered.”  Those 19 districts had 162 Lodges who could each have an organist.

The district submitted his name to CHEA and later notified him to submit a biography for review.

Baldassari submitted the following music biography:

As a member and organist for Elks Lodge 6, I am proud to be part of a wonderful family and organization and thrilled to carry on the tradition of filling hearts and souls with music.

When the Lord gifted me with the ability to make music, He gave me just enough skill to remain humble and appreciate what hard work can accomplish. He also gave me a heart for charity and a desire to share my passion for music wherever I go.

My musical journey began in 1985 at age 12 while attending fifth grade at Brookside Elementary in San Anselmo, California. During a school assembly featuring instrument demonstrations, I was immediately drawn to the trumpet and signed up for lessons.

I later played in the junior high band at White Hill Middle School in Fairfax and then in the jazz and concert bands at Sir Francis Drake High School in San Anselmo. During my senior year, our jazz band competed in Santa Cruz and, after winning, performed in an evening concert at the Coconut Grove Ballroom alongside other winners, where we received a standing ovation.

After moving to Sacramento in 2001, I met pipe organist Tom Thompson, who was looking for a trumpet player for a special concert performance. Our collaboration began in 2005 at Grant Union High School for the Class of 1955 reunion, where we performed Jackie Gleason’s “The Honeymooners” theme song, “Melancholy Serenade.”

After that, we performed monthly at Stockton’s Bob Hope Fox Theatre for classic movie nights; playing before the audience arrived and again during the credits as guests departed.

Tom became my mentor and organ teacher, generously sharing his knowledge and years of experience.

I also volunteered at the Sacramento Habitat for Humanity ReStore. One day, I noticed a Hammond organ on the sales floor and began experimenting with it. To my delight, management and customers enjoyed the music.

Eventually, this evolved into a regular volunteer role entertaining shoppers. I met many people who became both fans and friends and who would purposely shop on the days I volunteered.

One of my most meaningful performances was for my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary in 2016 at the Marin Art and Garden Center. During the performance, I watched my father approach and stand beside me. A few minutes later, his cousin Carla joined him. Within a year or two, she had passed away. Having that moment captured by the event photographer remains something I deeply cherish.

After my time at Habitat for Humanity ended, I searched for another opportunity to share music. Through social media, I posted a request seeking a place to practice. Shannon Lewis responded on Nextdoor, invited me to join the Elks, and became my sponsor.

My journey as an Elks Lodge organist has only just begun, and already it has multiplied with love, acceptance, joy, and many unexpected but meaningful discoveries. I look forward to continuing this lifelong musical pilgrimage with my fellow Elks family.

After submitting his biography, Dan was contacted directly by CHEA Director Tim Martin and informed of the requirements for the position. He was then selected to become the new CHEA organist.

Nicole Holton Alvarado, Elks 6 Esteemed Leading Knight, said, “It is especially inspiring to see a younger member embrace a role so deeply rooted in our history. Dan’s commitment demonstrates that our traditions remain meaningful and that the future of our Lodge is bright when members of all generations step forward to serve.”

 Elks 6’s Exalted Ruler Carol “Coach” Mitchell said, “The Sacramento six officers core is proud of our Lodge organist Dan Baldassari for being selected as the California Hawaii Elks Association organist.” 

She added, “We are excited to see what his journey will hold for him representing our Lodge at the State level.”