By: Nancy Ruth | Category: In Our Communities | Issue: October 2025

Photo courtesy of The Church Studio.
David Goldenberg, Chief Executive Officer of the Museum of Tulsa History (the MOTH), and Rodger Randle, Director, OU Center for Studies in Democracy and Culture, announces the latest installment of the series “Women’s Voice”, a special Q&A and book signing featuring Teresa Knox, founder of The Church Studio and author of Sanctuary of Sound: The Church Studio.
The event will take place on Tuesday, November 4, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the MOTH, located at 2445 S. Peoria Ave, in Tulsa. Guests will enjoy light refreshments before the program. The evening features an interactive Q&A between Knox and Amanda Swope with autographed copies of Sanctuary of Sound: The Church Studio available for purchase.
“We’re proud to feature Teresa Knox as part of our “Women’s Voices” series that has highlighted women who have contributed to the culture, politics, creativity, and history of Tulsa, Oklahoma, the nation, and the world. Teresa’s work in preserving The Church Studio honors both Oklahoma’s musical past and its bright creative future.”
Sanctuary of Sound: The Church Studio is a richly photographed chronicle of the historic church-turned-recording studio that became home to Leon Russell’s Shelter Records and the birthplace of the Tulsa Sound. The book captures the artistry, architecture, and inspiration that continue to define The Church Studio as a national music landmark.
“The Church Studio represents so much more than a building; it’s a living symbol of artistry, collaboration, and community,” said Knox. “I’m honored to share its story through MOTH’s remarkable platform, celebrating Oklahoma women.”
Located in the heart of Tulsa, the Museum of Tulsa History celebrates the stories, people, and creative spirit that define the city’s rich cultural legacy. Through immersive exhibits, curated archives, and dynamic community events, the MOTH connects past and present while inspiring fresh perspectives on Tulsa’s evolving identity.
Under the leadership of Executive Director David Goldenberg, MOTH convenes artists, authors, and innovators through programs such as “Women’s Voices,” highlighting those whose work continues to shape the state’s cultural landscape.
The Church Studio, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a renowned recording facility and 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Previously operated by Oklahoma legends Leon Russell and, later, Steve Ripley, The Church Studio has played a pivotal role in the music industry, hosting numerous legendary artists and producing timeless hits. It offers a professional recording environment, educational programs, exhibits, artist grants, and events such as Tunes @ Noon and In Session. The studio continues to support and inspire music makers while honoring its storied legacy in the industry. https://thechurchstudio.com
Teresa Knox is the founder and CEO of The Church Studio, a world-class recording studio and music museum in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Her work in historic preservation and cultural revitalization has made her a key advocate for Tulsa’s creative community. Sanctuary of Sound is her debut book, celebrating the artistry and history of this restored landmark.
Sanctuary of Sound is a must-have for music fans, historians, photography enthusiasts, and anyone inspired by the enduring spirit of American creativity. It also makes a thoughtful and unique Christmas gift—perfect for the music lover in your life. For more information, please visit www.schoolofhardknox.com/sanctuary-of-sound/
This book tells the story of a humble building in Tulsa, Oklahoma, that became something greater than its bricks and mortar. Built by working-class citizens over a century ago, it served as a neighborhood church, offering a welcoming community space. Through good times, hard times, economic prosperity, dust storms, world wars, and cultural disruptions, the sanctuary remained a constant source of hope. It welcomed people through its doors for baptisms and funerals, for music and prayer, for comfort and celebration. Buy the Sanctuary of Sound on The Church Studio website.
The proceeds from the book benefit The Church Studio Music Foundation, a 501(C)(3) organization.
David Goldenberg, MOTH CEO, eat0@eau0eav0eaw0, 918-712-9484
Nancy Ruth, The Church Studio, eat1@eau1eav1eaw1, 918-408-1140
(918) 894-2965
304 S Trenton Ave | Tulsa, OK 74120
thechurchstudio.com
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