Summertime is that wonderful time when some of us get a slight break from our normal program year church duties. I’m always glad for the little respite from weekly rehearsals with the choir; I miss them terribly, but I do enjoy the extra evening of relaxation.
One thing that I look forward to is having the time to work on things that I don’t normally have time to. I might work on some literature or work on some skills that I’ve wanted to hone or improve on. I’ve been in the biz for 38 years now, and dread becoming complacent or stuck in a rut or even outdated. One summer I sought out some coaching on the organ. It was great to get a little extra kick and was able to learn a few new pieces that summer and noticed how much more relaxed I had become at the console. Another summer I took on some conducting coaching which boosted my overall confidence and refreshed some the vocal skills that are automatic to me, but not necessarily my choir. Of course I learned a few new tricks as well, which I was excited to share with my choir in the fall. Next on my list will be some piano coaching. It’s been many years since I’ve studied in that realm and there are so many good habits/skills that are transferable from piano to organ.
With that said, summer is also a great time to work toward those AGO certifications you may have been putting off. There are certificate levels to suit just about every level of playing skill and desire. They aren’t easy, but by no means are they unattainable. Give yourself the gift of continued education and check them out. https://www.agohq.org/certification/
If you’re unsure of what to do or where to go with studies, just ask, we can help you out. That is the purpose of the Guild, we’re here to help each other out and lift each other up in any way that we can.
I’d like to offer up congratulations to North Shore Chapter member, Michael Gagne who, in the last month, successfully completed his CAGO examination! Congratulations, Michael, Job well done!
Enjoy your summer, friends. Make the most of yourself and your summer, you owe it to yourself!
Rich Spantikow
Sub-Dean