July 2018
Lessons, Workshops, Friends, and Mentors

Like many members of A.G.O., music is an avocation for me.  I became interested in church music while stationed on the east coast during the Viet Nam conflict, and was able to attend a number of services at the National Cathedral in Washington D.C.  After my discharge, I joined the North Shore Chapter, and began several years of private study, some of which was with Dr. Robert Lodine at the American Conservatory.   I had been raised in a modest U.C.C. church, where the dedicated church organist was a proponent of the “theater style” of playing, and offered up a ceaseless round of Ringk, Thygerson, and Merkel, so I felt very smug, one Sunday, when I played the Messiaen “Apparition of the Eternal Church” on the Hammond B3.  Apparently, I’ve always favored unhackneyed repertoire and hymnody!

Gradually, my talents evolved, and I undertook a series of  substitute and interim assignments, eventually leading to several long term positions. I’ve attended many recitals, workshops, and conventions, but, most importantly, I was fortunate to have several dear friends and mentors who were happy to share their insights and expertise, for which I am indebted. That’s part of the function of a guild, and of course we never stop learning. I would encourage others to seize every opportunity to participate and share their gifts through the guild, and beyond, to “lead their praises” on our chosen instrument, the organ.    

Steve Potter

Past Overtones

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