Like so many of us, I first heard the organ in church and was captivated with the sound.
When I was a high school sophomore, my music teacher got me studying organ at Sherwood Music School (later Sherwood Conservatory) with Dr. Herbert White. He introduced me to the Chicago AGO Chapter and signed my membership application. In those days 2 chapter members in good standing had to sign an application.
The organ world was bigger than I thought.
I met many people in that chapter and later joined North Shore as a dual member. I also joined Fox Valley as a dual member. Over these years I have participated in several chapter programs and have also attended many national conventions and workshops.It is good to get out and play different organs.
I have played in various churches over the years, both as a substitute and as a staff organist. Currently, I have played at Trinity United Methodist Church in the Beverly area on Chicago’s far South Side since 1988, and I also play at Beverly Covenant Church. I play special services in other churches when the opportunity presents itself.
Every organist has a story to tell, and many of us have walked down the same road.