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September Dean's Message

School days, school days, Dear old golden rule days.

This time of year we are inundated with Back-to-School images from sales on clothes and supplies to images of parents tearfully sending their kids to the first day of kindergarten or college.  Even if your active part is in the past, the images remain.  “But we’re done with school!” you cry.

Many professions require continuing education either to retain a certificate or license, or simply to stay close to the changes in the field.  Some people want to advance from their present qualifications to a better, higher-paying, or more prestigious job.  As church musicians we cannot afford not to work diligently at continuing our education.

No, you are not done with school.  It only changes form and focus.

The AGO exists as an educational organization.  Its tax-exempt status is defined under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code, for educational institutions.  The original charter is from the Board of Regents of the State University of New York.  The national and regional conventions include a variety of sessions contributing to continuing education, and many chapter events have some educational value.

Reading and ‘Riting and ‘Rithmetic, Taught to the tune of a hick’ry stick.

My memories of piano lessons as a kid were not, shall we say, exciting.  With the books available and what could excite a 10-year-old, I certainly learned much.  Not that the long-ago scales and exercises are not valuable today.  But continuing education and all adult education can be and should be relevant and enjoyable.

What constitutes continuing education?  Most of you have heard reports of abuses of continuing education with a one hour investment seminar packaged with a week of golf in Hawaii for physicians or attorneys.  That is the exception.  Reading workshops for new music, discussions on employment relations, and yes, individual lessons or coaching are a few examples.  And from many sources: denominational musician groups, publishers, instrument dealers.  And AGO.

The Seattle chapter’s programs this year will include several educational opportunities: a session on exam preparation, a presentation on Northwest organ-building, and a session hearing and reading music for choir or voice with organ are a few. 

You were my queen in calico; I was your bashful barefoot beau.

Don’t be bashful.  The chapter programs are for YOUR benefit, helping each of you grow and thrive in the profession. 

I hope, no, I PLAN to see all of you at the chapter programs this year.

Carl Kishline, Dean

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