This is my last newsletter as Dean of the Seattle Chapter of the AGO and it was a privilege to serve in this role. I would like to thank members in leadership and auxiliary duties during my time as Dean: JoAn Andenes, Jane Ann Bradbury, Carol Churchill, Brenda Durden, Martha Freitag, Ray Gobin, David Lepse, Alec Manullang, René Marceau, Clint Meadway, David Nichols, Martin Olson, Karl Rabel, Wayne Ritchie, Will Simpson, Chris Stohl, Tyleen Stults, Jerry van der Pol, Jim Van Horn and Randall Wilkens for all their work for the chapter. This included and was not limited to maintaining the budget/finances, auditing finances, managing membership through IMIS, tracking concerts/educational events, revising the chapter bylaws and operating procedures, reporting to The American Organist magazine, transporting the OrgelKid’s Kit, transporting the music library, overseeing special programs/grants, securing nominations, organizing young organist events, managing the website, securing venues, recording/executing minutes, writing thank you notes/words of encouragement, and editing newsletters. These folks put in hours of work for our chapter, and their dedication is very much appreciated.

 

This past year we purchased an OrgelKid’s Kit and David Lepse scheduled its use, transported it, and gave instruction on its assembly and disassembly. René Marceau graciously found room in his shop to house the kit and has helped with its transportation. It is in frequent use by schools, universities, teachers, and organists.

 

We were able to collaborate with the University of Washington School of Music and its organ studies program led by Dr. Stef Price. It was a joy to co-host the Renne A. Louprette all -Bach concert this past Friday and the masterclass held on Saturday at St. Mark’s Cathedral, Seattle. The class featured chapter members Tyleen Stults, Mary Douglas, and Caleb Haskins. It was informative and enjoyable to see and hear Renne Louprette offer tips on technique, and her interpretation and insights into the Bach pieces that were played. A reception followed at the Leffler House where we enjoyed conversations and refreshments.

 

JoAn Andenes is stepping down as Membership Chair. She will continue as Placement Coordinator and has been in those positions since the early 1980’s! Thank you JoAn. David Nichols is retiring after 14 years as the chapter’s treasurer. We are sad to see him go but are happy for his years of service and wish him well in his retirement as treasurer and as he continues as a chapter member.

 

Lucy Kay Osborne, Dean