MISSION, VISION, AND VALUE PROPOSITION
The mission of the American Guild of Organists is to foster a thriving community of musicians who share their knowledge and inspire passion for the organ.
The vision of the American Guild of Organists is to engage, support, and uplift every organist.
Value Proposition (A Value Proposition is simply a promise of value to be delivered–a statement of the specific benefits you can expect through AGO membership.)
As a member of the American Guild of Organists you can
connect with other organists
enhance your skills as an organist and choral conductor
celebrate the organ in historic and evolving contexts
discover news of the organ and choral world online and
in The American Organist
nurture new organists of all ages
share knowledge and expertise
enjoy camaraderie at chapter events and conventions
find inspiration and challenge
receive encouragement from colleagues
experience great organs and organists
access career opportunities and job listings
earn professional credentials through AGO certification
(Approved by National Council May 9, 2016; revised by National Council June 7, 2016.)
Founded in 1896 as both an educational and service organization, the AGO seeks to set and maintain high musical standards and to promote understanding and appreciation of all aspects of organ and church music. Under the leadership of the National Council, a network of volunteer committees and officials at the regional, district, and local levels directs the activities of the Guild. The AGO National Headquarters is in New York City where a full time staff supports and coordinates publication, administration, and development activities of the organization. For purposes of administration and representation, the Guild is divided into nine geographical regions, and each chapter is assigned to one of them.
The AGO and the Associated Pipe Organ Builders of America (APOBA) share a mutually beneficial association, a collaboration that has existed since 1975. For several decades this relationship has been strengthened by financial contributions from APOBA and its members in support of the AGO and its Pipe Organ Encounters (POE) program. The AGO has responded with generous provisions for bringing news from APOBA and its members to the organ public.
Guild sponsored activities include a series of examinations for professional certification as well as programs and an extensive list of publications, CDs, DVDs, and learning resources for all levels of interest.
The Guild sponsors competitions in organ performance and improvisation and in organ and choral composition.
National and regional conventions held in alternate years, present the finest performers.
The American Organist magazine, published monthly by the AGO, is the most widely read journal devoted to organ and choral music in the world.
To find out more about joining, please visit the membership page.