Lehigh Valley Chapter
American Guild of Organists
About the Lehigh Valley Chapter
Join the Lehigh Valley Chapter
The Lehigh Valley Chapter welcomes all individuals who love the organ and its music. Persons of all
skill levels are invited to join our chapter. Beginners are especially encouraged to become a part
of the Guild as we have programs throughout the year and materials that will help you.
To join the Lehigh Valley Chapter AGO please visit
www.agohq.org
and select Membership.
Task Force for the New Organist
The Task Force on the New Organist was created by the National AGO to address current concerns such as
(1) the significant decline of organ and piano majors in colleges and universities,
(2) the increasing shortage of organists, particularly in part-time positions.
Our local chapter Task Force was formed in 1988-1989.
The Lehigh Valley Chapter has created a new process for awarding scholarship funds for beginning organ students.
If you or someone you know has an advanced piano student who would like the experience of 10 introductory organ
lessons with a qualified LVAGO teacher,
you will find the application below. A panel of judges will evaluate the application and letters of interest
and recommendation and award the scholarship of 10 organ lessons and a one year membership in the Lehigh
Valley Chapter as warranted.
To enter this year's Scholarship, download the
LVAGO Scholarship Application - 2015.
Complete the form and return as instructed by the form.
Placement Service
The Placement Service of the Lehigh Valley Chapter of the AGO was established to assist both Guild
members and congregations. The Service provides materials to aid in (1) defining the responsibilities
of the position, (2) determining a salary commensurate with work, skills and educational level required,
and (3) selecting an individual to meet a congregation's needs.
The Placement Information Sheet is provided for your use as you define the three areas above.
The ad will be developed from this worksheet. We recommend churches study these materials and develop
a job description before beginning the interview process.
Each submission secures two publications in the newsletter. Churches can resubmit as desired or necessary. Additionally, the editor should be notified if a position is filled prior to publication. The job of the church musician is approximately 25% visible (services, rehearsals) and 75% invisible (practice time, study, meetings, rehearsal planning, etc). If the AGO can help your congregation and/or individuals determine how this balance plays out in your situation, please let us know.
Should you have any questions about the following materials, or to submit the Placement Information Sheet,
please contact Mark Dennis, webmaster and editor. (vmdennispa@juno.com)
Sincerely,
Lehigh Valley Chapter, American Guild of Organists
Download the Placement Service Information Sheet.