The month of November is often set aside as a time to reflect on what we are thankful for. I would guess my story of thankfulness is similar to yours.

I am thankful for my first piano and organ teachers who were patient, encouraging, and at times, when necessary, a bit tough!

I am thankful for the professional organists in and around my hometown who allowed me, as a teenager, to come and try out their organs.

I am thankful for the retiring organists who gifted me with sheet music and books that I still have in my personal library.

I am thankful for the churches that hosted organ concerts and exposed me to great music and world-renowned artists.

I am thankful for AGO chapters that hosted masterclasses, dinners, and lectures.

I am thankful for those seasoned professionals who have given me advice from their years of experience.

I am thankful for young organists who remind me of the joy of the organ.

Like you, my list could be several times longer. We have much to be thankful for. I would encourage you over the next few weeks to create your own list and reflect on all that you are thankful for.

Andrew

Solo Organ Music of Women Composers

Saturday, November 11

10:00 am

Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Detroit

4800 Woodward Avenue

Dr. Sarah Simko presents a fascinating lecture/recital on the contributions of female composers. Discover new works you can incorporate into your repertoire.

We will also honor Dr. James Kibbie as a Lifetime Member of the Detroit AGO.

Event Recap

The beautiful Church of St. Matthew, Detroit was the setting for our October event. Joe Balistreri, currently studying for a DMA in sacred music at the University of Notre Dame, led us in a chant boot camp. There was a large variety in ability and experience, but Joe brought us all along on a fascinating journey of scholarship, anecdotes, singing, and fun.

Sunday, November 12, 3:00 pm

Aaron Jonah Lewis and Stephen Warner

Ragtime Banjo and Pipe Organ

Masonic Temple Detroit

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Sunday, November 12, 5:00 pm

First Presbyterian Church of Birmingham

The Chancel Choir of First Presbyterian presents a concert of choral works around the theme of Heaven. Free-will offering. Reception after the concert.

Would You Like to Play the Area's Largest Residential Organ?

Once again, the original-condition 1919 Aeolian organ in Meadow Brook Hall will be featured during the annual Holiday Walk from Thanksgiving until Christmas. Meadow Brook Hall is a National Historic Landmark. It is the 88,000 sq.ft. former home of Alfred and Matilda Dodge Wilson, and is on the campus of Oakland University.

In past years Detroit Area organists have generously joined in volunteering to man the console and provide holiday music for the hall's visitors. Around the end of October, interested organists will be contacted to set up schedules. If you have an interest in playing this historic instrument and would like to be added to the contact list, please contact Pete Townsend at ptownsend@comcast.net so your name can be added to the email list. If you have an interest in a short practice or trial session prior to then, please also contact Pete.

Job Postings

Fort Street Presbyterian Church in Detroit is seeking a Director of Music Ministries

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Christ Lutheran in Sterling Heights is seeking a music director

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Tabernacle Missionary Baptist in Detroit is seeking an organist

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Ascension of Christ Lutheran in Beverly Hills is seeking an organist/choir director

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Christ Lutheran Church in Warren is seeking and music director/organist

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First Presbyterian of Brighton is seeking a pianist/accompanist

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