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Spartanburg Chapter (South Carolina) |
| Last updated: November 25, 2008 |
Message from the Dean |
| The American Guild of Organists (AGO) founded in 1896 is the national professional association serving the organ and choral fields. Ths Guild's membership numbers approximately 20,000 in 330 chapters throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Beginning its fifty-fourth year the Spartanburg Chapter was chartered in 1954, the third oldest of the six chapters in South Carolina.
The Spartanburg Chapter has scheduled programs and events to celebrate The International Year of the Organ (IYO), 2008-2009. The monthly meetings, special recitals and concerts, and educational events exemplify the Chapter's dedication to promoting the highest standards of secular and sacred organ playing and the performance of choral and instrumentsl music. This year's programs reflect the members' goals for education, excellence, and performance in music in such areas as these: an anthem reading and singing session, the members' annual recital, a presentation on the management of a music program in a small church setting, a multi-hands organ/piano keyboards program (courtesy of Case Music of Spartanburg), a Christmas holiday dinner with impromptu music by the members, a progressive dinner with mini-recitals at each venue, a "Pedals, Pipes and Pizza" (PPP) event for young musicians, and a program to celebrate Mendelssohn's 200th birthday (2009). The IYO celebrations include a multimedia presentation entitled "From Sea to Shining Sea" at the Episcopal Church of the Advent in November and the "World's Largest Organ Recital" on October 19, 2008, featuring guest artist and master-class clinician Dr. Gail Archer, co-sponsored with Converse College, showcasing Twichell Auditorium's 57-rank Casavant Freres organ. Membership of the Spartanburg Chapter includes full/part-time church musicians, music teachers, the clergy, and non-musician organ enthusiasts, people who appreciate and promote the goals and purpose of the Guild. This year the chapter's goals include recruitment of new members, initiating and awarding the first of three new organ scholarships in the chapter's history, and educating young musicians through events such as "Pedals, Pipes and Pizza." The Spartanburg Chapter of the American Guild of Organists has scheduled and implemented plans for quite an exciting, diverse, and creative year of recitals, concerts, events, and programs to celebrate The International Year of the Organ. Diane V. Pickens, Dean |
Local Events |
| SPARTANBURG AGO CHAPTER MEETINGS for the 2008-2009 Year:
+29 September 2008 (Monday, 7:00 p.m.): Anthem Reading Session. Fernwood Baptist Church. Rusty Keesler, host. Dinner meeting. +18 October 2008 (Saturday, 10:00 a.m.): Demonstration and master class with guest artist Gail Archer. Converse College Twichell Auditorium. Dr. Leon Couch, host. +19 October 2008 (Sunday, 4:00 p.m. - date of the "World's Largest Organ Recital"): ORGAN SPECTACULAR recital by visiting organist Gail Archer at Converse College's Twichell Auditorium. +14 November 2008 (Friday, 7:30 p.m.): "From Sea to Shining Sea," a multimedia presentation by Jeannine Jordan, showcasing the King of Instruments. Episcopal Church of the Advent. Brennan Szafron, host. +8 December 2008 (Monday, 7:00 p.m.): Holiday Party at home of Diane Pickens, 166 Ivy Street. +25 January 2009 (Sunday, 3:00 p.m.): Members' Recital and Choral Singing (Epiphany theme). Bethel United Methodist Church. Pamela Smithey, host. +7 February 2009 (Saturday, 10:00 a.m.): "Pedals, Pipes, and Pizza" (introduction to the organ and hands-on opportunity for young people). Converse College Twichell Auditorium. Leon Couch, host. SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS AND LINK TO BROCHURE. +23 February 2009 (Monday, 7:00 p.m.): Mardi Gras celebration. Case Brothers of Spartanburg. Pamela Smithey, host. +23 March 2009 (Monday, 7:00 p.m.): Progressive Dinner. Locations and hosts TBA. +27 April 2009 (Monday, 7:00 p.m.): "Managing a Music Program in the Small or Medium-Sized Church." Trinity United Methodist Church. Justin Addington, presenter and host. +18 May 2009 (Monday, 7:00 p.m.): "Happy Birthday, Mendelssohn." First Presbyterian Church, with the Madrigal SIngers. Holt and Marcia Andrews, hosts. OTHER EVENTS: The Carson-Newman College Department of Music full-tuition scholarship competition is open to any high school senior who will major in music at the college. One full-tuition award is just for organ majors. Other awards are for piano, voice, and band. Additional scholarships will also be given to those who don't win. There are currently 7 organ majors from 4 states; there are 9 in organ studio (including 2 non-majors). There are opportunities to study organ in Europe (3 organ students did this in May 2007). For more information contact Dr. Ryan Garber at rgarber@cn.edu. Online audition form is available zt www.cn.edu/music/audition.cfm. [09/07] Symposium THE LEGACY OF SINGIN' BILLY WALKER: HYMNS OF THE SOUTH will be presented at Converse College 28-31 January 2009. Panel discussion on Walker's legacy Jan 28 (7:30 p.m.); luncheon for faculty and area musicians Jan 29 (11:30 a.m.); concert of hymns Jan 29 (7:30 p.m.); workshops and round-table discussions Jan 31 (10:00 a.m.); bicentennial tribute to Walker with folk hymns and spirituals Jan 31 (7:30 p.m.). All free and open to the public. For information contact Drl Leon Couch (leon.couch@converse.edu). Registration at http://cs.converse.edu/NHP/register/ PEDALS! PIPES! PIZZA! Saturday, February 7, 2009 (10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.) on Campus of Converse College, Spartanburg. A day for young people (13-18) to see and learn about the pipe organ. Hands-on playing the organ. See how the organ works. Meet organ professors, church musicians, and organ students. Presenters: +Marcia Andrews (organist, First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg), +Dr. Joby Bell (Professor, Appalachian State University), +Tommy Bishop (organist, First Presbyterian Church of Union), +Dr. Leon Couch (Professor, Converse College), +David Brinson and Nathan Bryson (Cornel Zimmer Organ Builders), +Dr. Leigh Fleury (organist, Westminter Presbyterian Church, Clinton), +Florence Jowers (professor, Lenoir-Rhyne College), +Diane Pickens (organist, Congregational Church [UCC], Tryon), +Dr. Brennan Szafron, Episcopal Church of the Advent), +Students of the Converse Organ Studio. Cost only $5 (includes pizza lunch). For additional information: AGOSparkle@gmail.com, Diane Pickens 864-621-5033. For brochure link to http://profcouch.us/Courses/Fall2008/PipesPedalPizza_SpartanburgAGO_020709.pdf |
Newsletter |
| New compact disc (CD) release on the Pro Organo Label: "HAMBURGER RHETORIK," Baroque Interpretations by Leon W. Couch, III (professor of organ at Converse College). Recorded on the Noack Organ at Christ the King Lutheran Church, Houston Texas. For specifics/ordering link to www.ProOrgano.com.
Chapter scholarships will be offered annually by the Spartanburg AGO chapter in three categories: (1) Pipe Organ Encounter Scholarship ($300), available to qualified students ages 12-17. (2) Pre-College Organ Scholarship ($150 per semester) for qualified students ages 12-17. Previous organ study not required but basic keyboard proficiency necessary. (3) College Organ Scholarship ($300 per semester) for qualified college and graduate students. For further information contact scholarship chairman Gayle W. Wade (e-mail = gaylewade@charter.net; telephone = 864-582-6222). The Spartanburg Philharmonic (National Federation of Music Clubs) announces a scholarship available for high school students interested in organ study. If no prospective organ scholar applies, the award is given away to a piano student instead. Point of contact: Marge Fay (864-583-3253, lasalle387@aol.com). At the chapter meeting February 4 at Southside Baptist Church David Rhyne, organist and director of music at Trinity Lutheran Church in Greenville, presented an outline of the life and work of William Walker (1809-1875), citizen of Spartanburg and compiler in 1835 of SOUTHERN HARMONY, the first notable shape-note hymnbook in the American South. Guest vocalists demonstrated the style and sound of this unaccompanied harmonic tradition and showcased several hymns from an even earlier manuscript found in the library of Furman University. On 24 March 2008 the Spartanburg chapter held a progressive dinner, with mini-recitals following each course featuring selections of organ music for seasons of the church year: appetizers at Second Presbyterian Church (Charles Owings - Lenten music), main course at Central United Methodist Church (Leon Couch - Easter/Ascension), and dessert at Wofford College's Leonard Auditorium (Brennan Szafron - Pentecost). Nourishment for body and for spirit. Election of officers was held 28 April 2008 at the meeting following dinner at Basil's Restaurant. The Nominating Committee's recommendations were supplemented by nominations from the floor. Elected were Diane Pickens (dean), Justin Addington (sub-dean), Bill Burns (secretary), and Fran Bagwell (treasurer). Installation will take place May 19 at St. John's Lutheran Church at an evening Holden prayer service. The chapter met May 19 for dinner at St. John's Lutheran Church (host Frankie Deal), followed by a service of Holden Evening Prayer from the Lutheran tradition, which included the installation of newly elected officers for 2008-2010: dean Diane Pickens, sub-dean Justin Addington, secretary Dr. William Burns, and treasurer Frances (Fran) Bagwell. Choristers from the United Methodist churches of Spartanburg joined together under the direction of AGO chapter sub-dean Justin Addington on June 8 for "Testament of Praise," a choral thanksgiving for the life of Charles Wesley (1707-1788). Singers and orchestra presented this composition, with music by contemporary composer Joseph Martin set to words by Wesley, in Twichell Auditorium at Converse College. The celebration was offered in conjunction with the annual South Carolina United Methodist COnference. Our chapter member Dr. Leon Couch was the guest organ soloist on August 24 at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Charlotte (NC) during the Summer Recital Series, sponsored by the Charlotte chapter. Recitals by outstanding guest performers are given every Sunday evening during the months of June, July, and August in various locations throughout the Queen City. Dr. Couch's program was wide-ranging, featuring works from the 16th through the 20th centuries, from Dietrich Buxtehude through contemporary composer Janet Linker. The audience particularly enjoyed selections from the "Ascension Suite" by Olivier Messiaen and "Variations on 'America'" by Charles Ives. The chapter began the 2008-2009 year on September 29 at Fernwood Baptist Church with catered dinner followed by a business meeting where plans and criteria were adopted for the annual awarding of organ scholarships (for attending Pipe Organ Encounters, for pre-college students, and for college-level students). The group then adjourned to the church's choir room for an anthem reading session (James "Rusty" Keesler, host and conductor; Brennan Szafron, accompanist). Sample copies of all anthems were provided along with order forms. The chapter jointly sponsored with Converse College the visit of DR. GAIL ARCHER of New York City to celebrate the Organ Spectacular weekend of the International Year of the Organ. On Saturday, October 18, she presented a master class and deomonstration in the college's Twichell Auditorium on performing the music of Olivier Messiaen, providing expert advice about rhythm, fingering, and registration for use with either large or small organs. The next day she played a varied program open to the community, with works by composers from Buxtehude (b. 1637) to Messiaen (b. 1908) to David Noon (b. 1946). Attendance was brisk, even resulting in a shortage of printed programs! On November 14 the multimedia experience FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA was presented at the Episcopal Church of the Advent, jointly sponsored by the chapter and the church(Brennan Szafron, host). Dr. Jeannine Jordan played selected works by composers from early America (1700-1900) on the church's Flentrop mechanical-action instrument, along with visuals by David Jordan showing churches, organs, composers, and performers of that era. In honor of the International Year of the Organ Dr. Jordan also presented the crowd-pleasing "Blithely Breezing Along" by modern-day composer Stephen Paulus. A reception followed in the church hall. |
Membership |
| Membership in the Guild is open to all music lovers, not just organists. The benefits of membership are many, including the very important local network and the monthly journal, THE AMERICAN ORGANIST, which contains outstanding articles, music reviews, new organ notices, and more. Contact; Joan E. Kotrady (membership chairman), 864-895-9081. |
Placement |
| The congregation of First Presbyterian Church of GREER, S.C., seeks a PART-TIME MUSIC DIRECTOR with a background in the Reformed tradition and a desire to serve God through music. Opportunities are available to conduct the chancel choir, handbells, and youth ensembles, organ service playing, worship planning and music staff leadership. We value individual streengths and are open to a job description that would best fit the skills and experience of an applicant. Qualities we seek include organizational and interpersonal skills, a concern for individuals and the church, openness to all musical styles, and a desire to provide high quality music for worship. AGO salary guidelines. Contact Judy Pearson at (864) 968-8819 or 423-2262.
[06/08] AVELEIGH PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH in Newberry (SC) is seeking a part-time Minister of Music and an organ/piano/keyboard accompanist for contemporary and traditional services and to lead Children's Choirs and a Chime Choir. Open to single or split position. Competitive salary. Church address: 1211 Calhoun Street, Newberry, SC 29108. Church web site www.aveleigh.org, e-mail aveleighchurch@yahoo.com. Point of contact: Cathy Taylor (telephone 803-364-4753 or e-mail madefromscratch@backroads.net). [10/08] Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church in Mauldin seeks an ORGANIST. For job description and other information, see www.gcpc.net. Send resumes to Mrs. Jean Rhoden, Director of Music, Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, Box 828, Mauldin, SC, 29662. [11/08] AVAILABLE TO SUBSTITUTE (All telephone numbers Area Code 864 unless otherwise noted. List includes chapter members and others.): SUNDAYS AND OTHER DAYS: John Bullard - 582-8589, bullardjm@wofford.edu Thea Coleman - 574-4747, W:562-5214, tcoleman@srhs.com Sylvia Jennings - 579-7887, sylvia@wilffind.com John Sinila - 481-9481, C:650-7721 Kaylene Wilber - 573-6312, wesleywilbur@charter.net Vergene Colloms - 583-2149, muscolloms@webtv.net Leon Couch - 585-3284, musicman14@music.org Susan Lyle - 595-9173, 595-0241, ladyprofessor@charter.net, susan.lyle@converse.edu OTHER THAN SUNDAYS Richard Cribb - 576-8807, orgrichard@aol.com Mary Lou Miller - 576-2818, C:680-2800, info@centralumcspartnburg.org Charles Owings - 862-1393, maestrocto@charter.net Gayle Wade - 582-6222, gaylewwade@charter.net Leigh Fleury - 833-6530, wlfleury@juno.com Rusty Keesler - 342-9240, keesler_r@hotmail.com Diane Pickens - 583-1193, dvpickens@yahoo.com SUNDAYS ONLY Jennifer Zoellner - 704-974-4898, 803-924-6030, zoellner2@mindspring.com, jzoellner@gardner-webb.edu HANDBELLS Fran Bagwell - 582-8388 [Further information regarding chapter members available to substitute (organ or handbells) may be obtained by contacting Gayle Wade (864-582-6222, e-mail gaylewwade@aol.com) Employers and job seekers are invited to post and search listings of available positions on the Guild's National Website. |
Certification |
| Contact the chapter Dean regarding the process for pursiung AGO certification. |
Contact Us |
| DEAN: Diane V. Pickens (H: 864-583-1193; C: 864621-5033; e-mail = dvpickens@yahoo.com )
SUB-DEAN: Justin L. Addington (H: 864-463-4660; e-mail = jladdington07 @yahoo.com) SECRETARY: William W. Burns (H: 864-579-8617); e-mail = burnsww@hotmail.com) TREASURER: Frances J. Bagwell (H: 864-582-8388; e-mail = fjbagwell@yahoo.com) CHAPLAIN: Therlon W. Joyner (864-585-4461; e-mail = therlon@bellsouth.net) IMMEDIATE PAST DEAN: Brennan Szafron (C: 864-585-9090, ext 237; e-mail = bdsorg@aol.com) MEMBERSHIP: Joan Kotrady (H: 8864-895-9081; e-mail = kotradyj@bellsouth.net) WEB PAGE: Dr. William Burns (864-579-8617; e-mail = burnsww@hotmail.com) COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN: History - John Bullard Publicity - Bill Hunter Program - Justin Addington Professional Concerns - Tommy Bishop Membership - Joan Kotrady Communications - Richard Cribb & Frankie Deal Hospitality - Rita Medley & Nancy McCarter Publications - Bill Hunter Placement (Web Page) - William W. Burns Scholarship - Gayle W. Wade APPOINTIVE POSITIONS: Newsletter Editor - Bill Hunter Parliamentarian - Pamela Smithey Coordinator for Pedals, Pipes, and Pizza - Leon Couch |
Links |
| The Arts in Spartanburg = http://www.spartanarts.org
Sparklenet (cultural organizations in Spartanburg)= www.sparklenet.com South Carolina Arts Daily = www.state.sc.us/arts/daily South Carolina Educational Radio (ETV Radio) = www.etvradio.org Charlotte (N.C.) AGO Chapter = www.charlotteago.org Western N.C. AGO Chapter = www.wnc-ago.org Greater Columbia (S.C.) AGO Chapter = www.columbiaago.org Organ Historical Society (organ recordings, books, and printed music) = www.organsociety.org (for orders: www.ohscatalog.org) Zarex (Pro Organo audio & video recordings) = www.zarex.com Gothic Catalog (organ recordings) = www.gothicrecords.com University Music House = www.universitymusichouse.com (printed music) Case Brothers of Spartanburg (musical instruments and sheet music) = www.casebrothers.com National web site for Sacred Harp shape-note singing = www.fasola.org National website for Christian Harmony shape-note singing = www.christianharmony.org Musical-arts.net -- Articles, resources, and fetures designed exclusively for organists, choral directors, clergy, and those who appreciate music = www.musical-arts.net Regioinal website for Christian Harmony shape-note singings = http://buncombe.main.nc.us/~mbbweb/harmony.html Musical events in Columbia (SC): ColumbiaConcerts@aol.com. Robert I. Coulter, organbuilder. 2233 Faulkner Road, Atlanta, GA 30324. Telphone 404-931-3103. http://coulterorgans.com. Stuart Organ Company. 44 Saint John Avenue, Binghamtom, NY 13905. 607-237-0125 (VOX and FAX). www.stuartorgan.com. Pedals!Pipes!Pizza! http://profcouch.us/Courses/Fall2008/PipesPedalPizza_SpartanburgAGO_020709.pdf |
| Visit the AGO National website |