Apr 17, 2000

AGO NATIONAL DIRECTORY PROJECT ENTERS NEXT PHASE NEW YORK CITY — For the first time in fifty years, the AMERICAN GUILD OF ORGANISTS (AGO) will publish a national membership directory. Membership questionnaires are now being mailed to all AGO members in connection with our 2000 National Directory project. All members are asked to complete the brief questionnaire by checking the accuracy of the data printed on it and providing the additional demographic information requested. "The directory will provide the first compendium of our membership in 50 years," states James E. Thomashower, AGO Executive Director. "It will enable organists to find each other and keep in touch by providing basic contact information and e-mail addresses." The demographic information, while not for publication, will help the AGO's national committees and National Council gain insights into the AGO constituency so that plans and programs can be adjusted appropriately. All members are encouraged to complete and return the membership questionnaire promptly. Any member who has not received a questionnaire by April 30 should contact Harris Publishing at 1-800-860-9093. The AMERICAN GUILD OF ORGANISTS is the national professional association serving the organ and choral music fields. Founded in 1896 as both an educational and service organization, the AGO seeks to set and maintain high musical standards and to promote understanding and appreciation of all aspects of organ and choral music. The mission of the AGO is to promote the organ in its historic and evolving roles, to encourage excellence in the performance of organ and choral music, and to provide a forum for mutual support, inspiration, education, and certification of Guild members. The Guild currently serves more than 20,000 members in 343 local chapters throughout the United States and abroad. This information is submitted by F. Anthony Thurman, Director of Development and Communications at the National Headquarters of the American Guild of Organists and the American Organist Magazine. For further information, please contact Dr. Thurman by TEL (212) 870-2310, FAX (212) 870-2163 or E-MAIL <fathurman@agohq.org.>