Dean’s Column | June 2021

Dear Friends, 

I have long been a fan of the late USC philosophy professor, Dallas Willard. His insights were profound and his demeanor  disarming and engaging. Few insights seem as prescient as his argument that we must “ruthlessly eliminate hurry from our lives.” To be clear, Willard wasn’t arguing that our pace of life was a physical problem, he simply claimed that we cannot expect to reflect and grow unless we slow down.

This seems to particularly apply to those of us who delight in discovering, mastering and creating music. Creativity needs that space to germinate and grow.  Perhaps for you, the month of June signals  an opportunity to push the reset button. Our mindset changes with the weather and we are able to do things we have looked forward to all year…. maybe that means getting away, spending more time outdoors, or even learning new organ literature at a less frenetic pace.

Whatever “summer” brings for you this month, I trust as the world around us begins to open up, that you take the time to “ruthlessly eliminate hurry”. You may be pleasantly surprised at what you discover not only for yourself, but to share with the rest of us.

Warmly,
Judy Kohl, Dean

Past Overtones

Dean’s Column | January 2026

Join us on February 1 for our next chapter event at Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston: our NSAGO Members’ Recital on February 1 at 3:00pm in observance of Black History Month. Our Sub-Dean Marianne Kim is coordinating this program and performers include Bridget de la...

Dean’s Column | November 2025

Snow has fallen and Advent and Christmas will soon be here. Wishing you all a successful holiday season with the added services and concerts that come with it. In the aftermath of it all, we invite you to join us on Tuesday, January 6 at 6:30pm for our annual NSAGO...

Dean’s Column | July 2025

Membership Renewal & New Board Members I hope you’re having a wonderful summer and finding some time to recharge before fall. July 1 is the start date for our newly-elected board members James Russell Brown and Eun Joo Ju. We also extend our gratitude to Derek...