It’s my honor to be your new Dean for the coming year. This opportunity actually came as quite a surprise to me, since I’ve only been a member of the Seattle AGO for a few years, though I’ve been playing the organ since I was nine. I can’t believe that was 56 years ago!

 

For the last 36 of those years, I’ve been a full-time church musician. Like many of you, I’ve had to figure out how to integrate music into liturgy, strike that tricky balance between artistry and practicality, and work with volunteers and professionals at all levels. And more and more, I’ve had to answer that annoying question we organists often get these days, “Isn’t the organ a dying art?” My resounding and confident answer is always, “No!”

 

One proof of that is the amazing group of 20 young organists right here in our chapter. We heard from several of them in our June 8 chapter event, and I’ve enjoyed the chance to get to know a few of them. In these young organists we see that the future of our instrument is in good hands—and feet!

 

As stoked as I am by those in our chapter who are younger than I, I’m equally thankful for those who are older. I will be retiring from my church job next year, and I look forward to learning from some of you how you’ve continued to engage as organists in your post-retirement years.

 

I’m excited for the coming year and am hopeful it will bring unique, enriching experiences for everyone in our chapter—young, old, and in-between.

 

Blessings to you all!

Randall Wilkens, DMA

Seattle Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, Dean