RCYO

AGO/Quimby Regional Competitions for Young Organists

The AGO RCYO began with the 1992-1994 cycle and is an offshoot of NYACOP. Prior to 1992, younger players were able to enter NYACOP, however, as NYACOP became more and more professional, it became apparent that a separate competition was needed for younger players. Since 2002, Michael Quimby, President, Quimby Pipe Organs, Inc. has generously supported the competitions.

The actual competitions are held in odd-numbered years, and the competition cycle culminates the following year when the competition winners – now AGO Rising Stars – perform at the Rising Star recitals at the AGO National Convention. The competitions are sponsored and administered by the seven regions of the American Guild of Organists. Competitors must be under 24 years of age as of August 1 of the year the competition is held. Membership in the AGO is not required. Applicants who do not reside in the U.S. are responsible for understanding and complying with U.S. visa requirements as well as travel costs where applicable.

The first round of competition begins at the chapter level. Competitors may compete in any chapter competition held within the AGO region of their home or school. Only one chapter competition may be entered. A registration fee is required for participation in a chapter-level competition. The final round is at the regional level held in conjunction with one of the Regional Conventions. The official rules for 2017 were published in the September-16 issue of The American Organist. Download the 2017 Rules. Prizes: Chapter level varies. Regional: First place – $1,000; Second – $500. The AGO/Quimby Regional Competitions for Young Organists are made possible by a generous grant from Michael Quimby, President, Quimby Pipe Organs, Inc.

Meet the 2017 RCYO Regional Competition Winners

28 AGO chapters hosted competitions between February 15 and April 15, 2017. In turn, the first place winners from those events advanced to their respective regional conventions. The 2017 first and 2nd place AGO/Quimby RCYO winners from each of the seven regions appear below.

Chapters: Hosting an AGO competition winner is the perfect chapter event! Call or Email AGO Headquarters for contact information for any of the organists below.