The AGO regional competitions began with the 1992-1994 cycle as an offshoot of the AGO NYACOP. Prior to 1992, younger players were able to enter NYACOP, however, as NYACOP became more demanding, it was apparent that a separate competition was needed for younger players. Since 2002, the AGO/Quimby Regional Competitions for Young Organists have been made possible by a generous grant from Michael Quimby, President, Quimby Pipe Organs, Inc. The RCYO competitions are held in odd-numbered years, in two separate stages. The competitions are sponsored and administered by the seven regions of the American Guild of Organists.
Regional Prizes
First Place – $1,000
Second Place – $500
2023 Regional Competition Winners
In 2023, sixteen separate chapter-level competitions were held between February 11 and April 23, 2023. Each chapter-level competition winner advanced to a regional-level competition, and six regional winners were awarded. On July 3, 2024, the regional winners – now AGO Rising Stars – will perform at First Congregational Church in Berkeley, California in conjunction with the AGO National Convention in San Francisco.
2023 RCYO Committee
Vivienne McKay, Director Email
Colin MacKnight Email
Raymond J. Nagem Email