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 22 years of age as of July 1, 2019. 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.
Chapters: submit an application to host a 2019 chapter competition
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. Chapter competitions will be held between February 1 and April 13, 2019. A registration fee is required for participation in a chapter-level competition. The second and final round is at the regional level held in conjunction with one of the seven 2019 AGO Regional Conventions. The official rules for 2019 were published in the June, 2018 issue of The American Organist. Download the 2019 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.
The 2019 rules are now available!
The competitor entry form will be available and accessible from this page October, 2018, and the submission deadline for the competition is Dec 15, 2018. Competitors must be born on or after July 2, 1997. Refer to the rules for specific repertoire requirements. Download the hymns for the 2019 chapter events.
Coronation
Royal Oak
Crucifer
RCYO Committee
Vivienne McKay, Director Email
Sarah Martin Email
Ann Posey Email
For more information, contact AGO Headquarters.
