News Bulletins

May 22, 2008

NEW YORK CITY — The American Guild of Organists (AGO) presented its fifth annual recital and gala benefit reception on Sunday, April 13, at the First Congregational Church of Los Angeles. An estimated audience of 500 colleagues, students, and friends came together to celebrate the many accomplishments and distinguished service that Frederick Swann has brought to the organ profession. The recital, played by Mr. Swann on one of the largest church organs in the world, included works by Paul de Maleingreau, Searle Wright, J.S. Bach, H. Walford Davies, John Cook, George Akerley, Jehan Alain, and C. Hubert H. Parry. He was joined by actress Kathie Freeman, who narrated the award-winning A Sweet for Mother Goose by George Akerley. The gala benefit reception following was attended by 150.

The gala was sponsored by the AGO National Council and its Development Committee, Bruce P. Bengtson, AAGO, director. Major funding was provided by Fifield Manors Inc., the First Congregational Church of Los Angeles, Roy F. Kehl, FAGO, and Pemcor Inc. of Lancaster, Pa. Additional support was provided by Casavant Frères, and by the following individuals: Bruce P. Bengtson, AAGO, Nancy Ruyle Dodge, and Morgan and Mary Simmons. Program book design was contributed by Len Levasseur.

Donors unable to attend the gala will receive a copy of the souvenir program book with their contribution of $25 or more to the Endowment Fund. Contributions in honor of Frederick Swann can be made online at www.agohq.org or by mailing a check to: AGO Endowment Fund, 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 1260, New York, NY 10115. All gifts will be acknowledged in The American Organist Magazine. For information, please call 212-870-2311 (ext. 4308) or e-mail gala@agohq.org.

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, it sets and maintains high musical standards and promotes the understanding and appreciation of all aspects of organ and choral music. The mission of the AGO is to enrich lives through organ and choral music. The Guild currently serves approximately 19,000 members in more than 300 local chapters throughout the United States and abroad. The American Organist Magazine, the official journal of the AGO and the Associated Pipe Organ Builders of America, reaches an audience of more than 20,000 readers each month.

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.