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The American Guild of Organists was first organized in New York City in 1896. In 2005, the A.G.O. has over 20,000 members, who if they are not organists or organ builders themselves, share common interest in the King of Instruments and her music.
In 1896 the A.G.O. was one undivided body, and in 1902 The Philadelphia Chapter (originally the Pennsylvania Chapter) was organized as the first of chapter. 348 chapters span the nation today, with a few even outside the USA ! You’ll find an excellent article about our history on this website written by one of our former Deans, David Furniss.
Membership is open to all who have an interest. There are no tests or prerequisites. If you are reading this letter, you probably have an interest in our Art. I encourage you to join. We’re a great group of people. Really! ( Philadelphia is the nation’s second largest chapter and we’re working to be number one.) A membership form can be conveniently downloaded from this site. Some of us play for religious organizations. Some may play in bars or funeral homes, and some are concert musicians. Some teach or play for sports events or won’t play of anybody. Some of our members build organs professionally, and some regard the organ as a hobby. Some are basically pianists. Some play electronic organs and others play pipe organs. Some just listen. Some are mildly interested and some are passionately devoted.
Our official statement of purpose best describes who we are and what we are about: The Philadelphia Chapter of the American Guild of Organists is a professional organization whose varied members are committed to advocacy of the art of the organ through education, professional development, and performance.
You are cordially invited to attend our events whether or not you are a member. Feel free to contact me or anyone else with questions and compliments.
Jeff Fowler
Dean
