Saturday, May 07, 2011

Program Year-End Musings

As our chapters' program years draw to a close, I want to say a big THANK YOU to all of the volunteers who keep Region VI's chapters running. The AGO thrives only because of many dedicated people who work together to contribute to the vibrant artistic life of the organization. I appreciate all of you who contributed in many and varied ways to this effort in your community!

Chapters traditionally take a break for the summer. But AGO business does not. The summer can be a time of renewal and inspiration for the year ahead.

A regional party is being planned for you! Come to the 2011 Organ Festival in Des Moines this summer. You will find in this regional conventions a celebration and gathering of people like you. Our region has such rich resources, musical and otherwise. Come and celebrate! Find out more at www.agodesmoines2011.org.

Pipe Organ Encounters are unique opportunities offered by the AGO to young pianists and organists. Region VI's POE in 2011 will be held in Colorado Springs. The young people who participate will be inspired to take the places of the current generation of organists, ensuring the rich tradition of organ music continues far into the future! Find out more at www.coloradospringspoe.org. Consider how you could support this year's POE with your presence or financial contribution. Consider hosting a POE or sponsoring a student scholarship in a future year.

Chapters are completing program and activity plans for the 2011-12 year. I encourage all chapter members to use the summer's contemplation time to consider ways that you could increase your support of your chapter next year: join and pay your registration in a timely manner; volunteer for chapter leadership roles; provide transportation, lodging or meals for a guest artist; invite a fellow church member or musician colleague to a chapter event; sponsor a student membership for a young pianist or organist; provide carpool transportation for elderly members ... there are hundreds of ways that EVERY chapter member can contribute.

If you are one of the many Independent Members of the AGO in Region VI, chapter life is always available to you. You can find the nearest chapter to you by using the AGO's national website at www.agohq.org. However, if you are unable -- because of geographical distance from a chapter or other factors -- to participate in a chapter, this blog and other technological tools can help us inspire and support each other.

May you have a summer full of opportunities for rest, rejuvenation, and renewal!