Dean’s Column | May 2022

Dear Friends,

Colin Powell stated that, “There are no secrets to success. It’s the result of preparation, hard work and learning from failure.” The hard work and preparation are a given, but his statement begs an earlier question: What is success?  What are we supposed to be aiming for?  How do we define success as musicians? 

Perhaps that means for us, presenting a well-planned and impressive service played with flawless perfection?  Instead, could success be something less tangible such as bringing the sacred down to earth in a more accessible way? Maybe you’ve had the opportunity to do just this throughout the seasons of Lent, Easter and Passover. Personally, this is one of the things that brings me great joy and satisfaction. Now that those services are in the rearview window, take a deep breath and appreciate all you contributed to make this season meaningful to those who worship with you. 

I hope you are able to attend the wonderful program planned for you on Sunday, May 22nd. Enjoy a Progressive Organ Recital with music played by members of our North Shore AGO chapter at three different churches in Lake Forest. Following the last program, you are invited to join other chapter members and guests for a delicious banquet at the Nite N’ Gale Restaurant in Highwood. You can find more details in this newsletter.

I read something interesting recently… What do Billy Graham and Warren Buffet have in common? According to their memoirs, they share a similar “biggest regret.” What was it?  Their common regret was, “not spending more time with those they love.”  Now that is an example of failure from two successful people we can learn from.

Warmly,

Judy Kohl, Dean

Past Overtones

Dean’s Column | October 2024

Thank you to everyone who attended the first event of our 2024-2025 season in Kenilworth.  We installed our newly elected officers and enjoyed being together for Evensong.  Thanks especially to our organist Dr. Eun Joo Ju, Rev. Dr. Bill Evertsberg, and those...

Dean’s Column | June 2024

A very hearty welcome to June 2024! So here is another month of the year that features more graduation exercises, Father’s Day, Midsommer Fests, summer usually begins, holiday travels begin, end of year choir season concerts/special services, choir appreciation...

Dean’s Column | May 2024

Welcome to the Merry Month of May! Of course there are actually a few religions with a very significant allegiance to the Virgin Mary! Obviously this is the season of so many events that include graduations including high schools, colleges and universities, closing...