D ennis Keene, famed director of the VOICES OF ASCENSION,

Newsletter of the Philadelphia Chapter of the American Guild of Organists In This Issue... CHAPTER NEWS 1 CRESCENDO STAFF INFORMATION 2 REGISTRAR S CORNER 3 PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER AGO: 3 Offices and Committees Directory Wednesday, May 20th - 7:00pm Choral Techniques with Dennis Keene from the Voices of Ascension CHAPTER EVENTS 2014/2015 4 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 5 CHAPLAIN S CORNER 6 TUESDAY NOON RECITALS 8 POSITIONS AVAILABLE 9 SUNDAY SUBSTITUTES 11 OTHER SUBSTITUTES 12 KIMMEL DAY 13 THOMAS HERZER 15 WHERE AM I? 17 TALE PIPES 17 Wayne Presbyterian Church 125 E Lancaster Ave, Wayne, PA 19087 (610) 688-8700 Tim Evers and Jeff Fowler, hosts D ennis Keene, famed director of the VOICES OF ASCENSION, from New York, will present a choral workshop for ALL singers and members of the AGO Philadelphia Chapter. This evening will be available for only $10.00 to AGO Philadelphia Chapter Members AND THEIR SINGERS and GUESTS. You can sign up using this link: http://bit.ly/1grlvit New York's most beloved choir celebrates its 25th Anniversary this season. They will also present a special concert here in Philadelphia on Tuesday, May 19 at 7pm at the Cathedral Basilica of SS Peter and Paul, 18th at Benjamin Franklin Parkway. For tickets: www.cathedralphilaconcerts.org Continued on page 2 SAVE THE DATE: Monday, June 1 at 6:30 pm Annual Banquet and Installation of Officers at the Pyramid Club Host Doug Backman, Speaker Craig Whitney Watch for your invitation in the mail!! Or make your reservation now with this link: http://bit.ly/1g17ncd. AGO Members and Guests: $75.00 Craig R. Whitney, a retired foreign correspondent and editor of The New York Times, was born in Massachusetts in 1943 and began organ studies there with Henry Hokans and Lorene Banta, continuing at Harvard College with Melville Smith and John Ferris. He served with the U.S. Navy in Washington and in Vietnam from 1966-69 and with The New York Times in Vietnam, Germany, the Soviet Union, Britain and France before retiring as an assistant managing editor of The Times in 2009. His books include All the Stops, published by PublicAffairs in 2003. The deadline for the next issue is May 1, 2015

CRESCENDO, the official bulletin of the Philadelphia Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, is published monthly, September through June. All material for publication must reach the Editor by the 1st day of the month preceding the date of issue,.eg. November 1 for the December issue. This must be type written and e-mailed (text supplied in an attachment). Crescendo reserves the right to make editorial changes and to shorten articles to fit space limitations. Articles in Crescendo reflect the views of the writers and not necessarily those of the Guild. All advertising must be arranged through the Advertising Manager. Crescendo season and professional card advertising automatically renew for each successive volume, unless we receive notification of cancellation of the advertising. Advertising Rates Camera-ready: One-Time Season 1/8 page: $50 $400 1/4 page: $75 $600 1/2 page: $100 $800 full page: $150 $1200 Professional card: - $60 (full season, members only) Camera-ready art only accepted according to stated deadlines. Editorial Board CRESCENDO Mary Elizabeth Campbell, Editor 484-995-6110 email: Crescendo@agophila.org Karen Fallows & Tom Lever, Publishers 215-822-6762 215-855-0287 email: Crescendo@agophila.org Katherine Reier, Circulation Coordinator 215-517-4160 email: Katherine.Reier@agophila.org Calendar of Events Kathleen Scheide, Coordinator email: Calendar@agophila.org Positions Available Robert Carson, Coordinator 267-634-9271 email: Placement@agophila.org Advertising Mary Elizabeth Campbell, Coordinator 484-995-6110 email: Advertise@agophila.org Visit our website at www.agophila.org 2 Chapter News Continued from page 1 Mr. Keene has agreed to stay over an additional day to present a choral workshop for the singers of the Philadelphia area and the Members of our AGO Chapter. Learn from the MASTER OF CHORAL MUSIC!! It will be an evening you and your singers will not forget. Register TODAY to insure you get a spot and music! All singers are most welcome to attend the Dennis Keeene Workshop. Space is limited. Dennis Keene is Artistic Director and conductor of the Voices of Ascension Chorus & Orchestra. Known internationally through his many concerts and recordings with Voices of Ascension, his regular guest appearances as conductor and clinician, and his work as Artistic Director of The Dennis Keene Choral Festival, he has emerged as one of leading choral conductors in the world today. Recognized early as an exceptional organist, Dennis Keene began musical studies and performing in his native Los Angeles. He moved to New York City to study at The Juilliard School, where he earned the BM, MM, and DMA degrees and the coveted Gaston Dethier Organ Prize as a student of Vernon de Tar. Dr. Keene also studied privately in Paris with Marie- Madeleine Duruflé, André Marchal, and André Isoir. Dennis Keene was active as a recitalist until his interest in conducting led him to concentrate on that discipline. He subsequently studied conducting at the Pierre Monteux School for Orchestral Conductors, with Charles Bruck in Paris, and with John Nelson at The Juilliard School. His passion for the finest in professional choral music can be traced to his early work as organist with Gregg Smith, Roger Wagner, and Margaret Hillis. In addition to his work with Voices of Ascension and The Dennis Keene Choral Festival, Dr. Keene continues as Organist and Choirmaster of Church of the Ascension in New York City. He served for many years on the Board of Directors of Chorus America, the national service organization for the choral field, which honored him with the first Louis Botto Award for "innovative action and entrepreneurial zeal in developing a professional ensemble of exceptional artistic quality." He has also served on the Choral Panel of the National Endowment for the Arts and on the Music Panel of the New York State Council on the Arts. From 1998 to 2003 Maestro Keene presented a major summer institute for the training of conductors and singers: The Dennis Keene Choral Festival, in Kent, Connecticut. In 1993 he began his recording association with Delos International, with which he has recorded such best-selling CD's as Beyond Chant, The Duruflé Album, and the Berlioz Te Deum. This series of highly acclaimed recordings with Voices of Ascension has secured international recognition for both conductor and chorus and become the standard for first-ranked ensembles worldwide.

3 REGISTRAR S CORNER E R I K M E Y E R, R E G I S T R A R The AGO National Headquarters is beginning to send out renewal notices for those members whose renewal date is July 1st, 2015. This year they have added an option for paper renewal, since many people were not comfortable with the online process. Any members without an email address have automatically been selected for paper renewal. If you haven't already contacted me, and prefer to renew your membership by postal mail, please let me know and I'll sign you up right away. If you are signed up for paper renewal and haven't received anything yet - don't panic! However, do let me know if you haven't received a notice by June 1st. If you plan to renew online, you should receive an email from National Headquarters soon. Remember that the AGO now has a "rolling membership" - that is, if you joined in July, your renewal will be due in July; if you joined in November, your renewal will be due in November. Most of the Philadelphia Chapter has a due date of July 1st (the traditional due date for membership renewal). So, if you joined later in the year, you will not be receiving a membership form now, but will receive one when your membership is due. Please also remember that renewal money should be sent to National Headquarters. Do not send your renewal form/money to me. Thank you for your continued patience during this change! As always, please don't hesitate to contact me if you need assistance. MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION E r i k M e y e r, R e g i s t r a r Erik Want to join the Philadelphia chapter of the American Guild of Organists? Need to report AGO Directory changes on your current membership? Need to purchase a set of chapter mailing labels for your next music event? Contact Erik Meyer at: 1418 Fitzwatertown Rd., Willow Grove, PA 19090 registrar@agophila.org 215-247-7466 x104 PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER AMERICAN GUILD OF ORGANISTS ELECTED OFFICES Dean Tim Evers 610-688-8700 Dean@agophila.org Sub-Dean John Romeri 215-587-3696 SubDean@agophila.org Treasurer Bruce Marshall 215-844-8343 Treasurer@agophila.org Secretary Maria dej. Ellis 610-896-6189 Maria.Ellis@agophila.org Registrar Erik Meyer 215-247-7466 x104 registrar@agophila.org Communications Coordinator Marcia Sommers 610-692-5009 Communications@agophila.org Executive Committee TERM ENDING 2015 Mary Elizabeth Campbell 484-995-6110 Theodore Didden 215-646-0294 Zach Hemenway 215-242-2055 x35 Judith Fichthorn Bell Stebner 215-674-3456 TERM ENDING 2016 Grete Ingalls 215-310-0526 Erik Meyer 215-657-2607 Elaine Sonnenberg 419-980-0035 Gordon Turk 610-964-1808 TERM ENDING 2017 Paul Fejko 609-462-9000 Rosemary Hood 215-334-3643 Wesley Parrott 215-732-6732 Andrew Senn 215-567-0532 x28 APPOINTED LEADERSHIP Registrar Erik Meyer 215-247-7466 x104 EMeyer@stmartinec.org Chapter Chaplain Rev. Bruce Thorsen 215-230-3980 Chaplain@agophila.org Competition Committee Chair Alan Morrison 215-735-8259 Alan.Morrison@agophila.org Endowment Committee Chair Ethel Geist 215-529-1603 Ethel.Geist@agophila.org Examinations Coordinator Lee de Mets 215-997-0219 Lee.DeMets@agophila.org Historian / Archivist To be appointed Nomination Committee Chair To be appointed Placement Coordinator Robert Carson 267-634-9271 Placement@agophila.org Professional Concerns Chair Judy Lang 610-623-8069 Judy.Lang@agophila.org Tuesday Noon Recitals Coordinator Andrew Heller 610-789-0146 TuesdayNoon@agophila.org Volunteer Coordinator Loretta Hartnett 610-352-5441 Loretta.Hartnett@agophila.org Webmaster Tom Lever 215-855-0287 webmaster@agophila.org

Saturday, September 27, 2014, 9:30am Annual Kick-Off Event with Dr. James Litton English Choral Music. Repertoire and Techniques St. Monica, Berwyn Friday, October 24, 2014, 7:00pm A Tribute to Calvin Hampton St. Mark s Episcopal, Center City; St. Mark s Choir, Matt Glandorf, with Harry Huff (Calvin s Assistant) 4 Philadelphia Chapter of the AGO Chapter Events 2014-2015 Friday, November 7, 2014, 2:00pm Organ Concerto with the Philadelphia Orchestra and Organist Paul Jacobs Kimmel Center & Valanni Restaurant, 1229 Spruce Street 2 PM Concert; 4:30 PM Happy Hour with Paul Jacobs Monday, November 24, 2014, 9:30am Workshop with Thierry Escaich on the Durufle Legacy Improvisation Organist from St. Etienne de Mont, Paris Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church Sunday, December 28, 2014, 4:00pm - 8:00pm AGO Christmas Party Fred Haas Residence Saturday, January 17, 2015, 8:00am - 4:00pm January Jumpstart Michael McCarthy, National Cathedral Director, Cathedral Organist Benjamin Straley, PLUS Singers from the National Cathedral Choir Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church Sunday,February 15, 2015, 4:00pm Hymn Festival with Robert Hobby St. Paul s Lutheran, Ardmore; host Andrew Heller Monday, March 16, 2015, 7:30pm Alexander Technique and Body Mapping with Heather Buchanan, for console player and conductor St Paul Lutheran, Glenside; host: Rae Ann Anderson Sunday, April 19, 2015, afternoon AGO Legends IX Bryn Athyn Cathedral; hosts Graham Bier, Terry S. Schnarr Wednesday, May 20, 2015, 7:00pm Choral Techniques with Dennis Keene from the Voices of Ascension. Wayne Presbyterian Church; hosts Tim Evers, Jeff Fowler Monday, June 1, 2015, 6:30pm Annual Banquet and Installation of Officers Pyramid Club; host: Doug Backman Saturday, June 13, 2015 11 AM - 5 PM Fred J. Cooper Memorial Organ Day Kimmel Center We thank our 2014-2015 Patrons (list updated monthly) Benefactors Jeffrey B. Fowler Ethel Geist, CAGO, and Norman Geist Alan Morrison Harry Wilkinson Sponsors Peter Richard Conte, AAGO Theodore W. Didden, CAGO Joseph J. Lewis John A. Romeri, AAGO, ChM, & Karen Romeri David W. Stettler Donors Rae Ann Anderson Robert H. Erb Jane Errera, ChM Jeremy J. Flood Barbara R. Hartenbauer Ashley L. Horner Martha N. Johnson Conrad M. Olie Allen R. Popjoy Stephen F. Schreiber Contributors Carol P. Anders Cecelia A. Beatty John Byrne Rembrandt 3000 David Christopher, CAGO Maria de J. Ellis Mary L. Fenwick, AAGO Loretta S. Hartnett, SPC Andrew K. Heller Charles F. Kelemen Judith A. Lang Maria Lennon Phyllis B. Linn Erik G. Meyer Leighton W. Moyer Richard J. Pilch John E. Reber Clair Rozier Michael Stairs Debra Bacak Robert K. Betty Mary Elizabeth Campbell, CAGO Marjorie Lynch Cummings, CAGO William P. Fenimore Dorothy Fulton-Stevens, AAGO Milli Hayman Nancy J Kahler-Jow Paul S. Kinsey Jeffrey P. Lees Thomas S. Lever, Jr. Jean Madden Kathleen J. Moyer Wesley D. Parrott Joyce F. Rasmussen Stephen W. Ross Yoshiko M. Seavey Edward Wilk

5 CALENDAR OF EVENTS K a t h l e e n S c h e i d e, C o o r d i n a t o r Calendar@ agophila. org Sunday, May 3, 4:00 PM Solemn Evensong for The Feast of Saint Florian, Patron Saint of Firefighters. Music of Bruckner and Archer. Procession to, and blessing of the city fire trucks. Chiming of bells at 3:45. Freewill offering. Reception. St. Mary's Parish, 145 W. Broad St., Burlington, NJ 08612 609.386.0902 www.stmarysburlington.org Sunday, May 3rd 7:00PM St. John's Choir and Friends sing Choral Favorites Spanning the Church Year. F. Thomas Snyder, Conductor, Joseph J. Lewis, Organist. St. John's Lutheran Church, 355 St. John's Circle, Phoenixville PA 19460. Free will offering. Reception follows. Information: 610-933-3947 Saturday, May 7, 7:00 PM Dickinson Theatre Organ Society presents Hector Olivera in concert at the 3/66 Kimball Theatre Pipe Organ. $15 cash at the door or order online at www.dtoskimball.org. Group discount available. Box office opens 5:30 p.m. concert day. All seats reserved. Free parking. Dickinson High School Auditorium, 1801 Milltown Rd., Wilmington DE 302.995.5630 Friday, May 8, 7:00 PM Thomas Herzer, organist at the Castle Church in Wittenberg. Fundraising recital for The Castle Church to have its "new" chancel organ in place for the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation. Freewill offering. Augustus Lutheran Church, 717 W. Main Street, Trappe, PA. music@adventharleysville.org 215.256.9941. Saturday, May 9, 7:00 PM Indian Valley Middle School Select Choir, Diane Ramage, conductor. Advent Lutheran Church, 470 Landis Rd, Harleysville, PA music@adventharleysville.org 215.256.9941 Sunday, May 10, 2:30 PM Philadelphia Chamber Orchestra 50th Anniversary Concert with Alan Morrison, organist, in Barber Toccata Festiva. Verizon Hall, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, 1520 Locust Street, Suite 500, Philadelphia http://chamberorchestra.org/concerts/?id=89 Ticket Philadelphia: 215.893.1999 All Upcoming Events for Crescendo publication should be sent to Kathleen Schiede in advance of our publication submission deadline, which is the 1st of the month preceding publication. Friday, May 15, 8:00 PM Abington Symphony Orchestra, John Sall, conductor. Rheinberger Concerto 2, Ethel Geist, organist. Works by Jesse Ayers, Dvorak and Weber. Freewill offering. Abington Presbyterian Church, 1082 Old York Rd, Abington PA 215.887.4530 www.apcusa.org/musicatabington Sunday, May 17, 3:00 PM Mark Bailey Memorial Concert. Choir and soloists. Suggested donation $25. Church of the Loving Shepherd, 1066 S. New Street, West Chester, PA 19382 610.692.5662 (response line) Tuesday, May 19, 7:00 PM Voices of Ascension - New York City, NY, 25th Anniversary Celebration. Cathedral Basilica of SS Peter and Paul, 18th and Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia. For tickets and pricing: www.cathedralphilaconcerts.org 215.561.1313 ex 116 Friday, May 29, 3:30 PM Reunions Concert, Eric Plutz, organist. Princeton University Chapel, Nassau Street & Washington Road, Princeton, NJ 609.258.3016 Steinway Grand Piano Model L, year 2000 Ebony Satin Finish Perfect condition - available to play Call the original owner: 305-962-5925

6 CHAPLAIN S CORNER T his past week I had a conversation with a member of the church where I am presently the organist. He shared with me that he had a conversation with a former organist about the hymn Amazing Grace. This discussion came about as the member was asking if the organist could play the hymns a bit faster. She asked him if he liked the hymn Amazing Grace and of course he said yes. She said it was the tune that made the hymn and he felt it was the text that was more important. Many of us may have had similar discussions. Part of it may be due to one s preference or culture or even denomination. But I would propose that the wedding of the tune and text is extremely important. A tune of course needs to be singable for the untrained singer and of course the text needs to be of high quality. The discussion did not get to the heart of the matter and that is the playing of hymns. I am not speaking of technical proficiency necessarily, but of singing the hymns through the keyboard one is playing. An organist in many of our churches is the Song/Hymn Leader. I have been to worship services lately where the organist was not leading the hymns, and was not playing the majority of the notes on the page. After a few hymns, it was not easy to sing, but I did not quit. When I am in the role of organist, I read the text of each stanza and do my best to text paint. I also am singing inside. We can have a debate on the speed of hymns, but that is not what it is about. It is about being able to sing and lead a group of untrained singers. Our responsibility is to support and lead the hymns or songs. Photo by MEC Worship is a very important time for the community of faith to gather in song. When there are things in worship that do not encourage people to participate, it invites people not to return. Can we sing the hymns/songs we lead from the heart? Members of the community of faith who gather to worship can often tell you, if we choose to ask whether we encourage them to sing. We are now in the Easter season where hymn/songs speak of new life and victory over sin, death and devil. Do our hymns sound joyous and victorious? I would challenge all of us to ask people present for worship if our playing/leading encourages them to sing. May you allow the Holy Spirit to breathe through your heart and your music that those whom we are leading may be refreshed by the music in worship! Chaplain Bruce Ron Coles, MM, M.Ed.Admin. Roxborough Sr High School, Arts Department Chair St. Paul Roman Catholic Church www.roncoles.com Marjorie Lynch Cummings C.A.G.O. First Presbyterian Church of Olney William J. Gatens, D. Phil., F.A.G.O., Ch.M. Blessed John Henry Newman Fellowship Congregation Adath Jeshurun, Elkins Park American Record Guide H a r r y W i l k i n s o n In Memoriam Ph.D., F.A.G.O.

7 Have you considered volunteering for our chapter? (And we are ALL volunteers!) Loretta Hartnett, former and long term volunteer coordinator, had these wise words to offer: The vitality and strength of any organization is the active participation of its members! A few possibilities: Letting us know if you would be willing to run for Executive Committee or other office Assisting with mailings Katherine Reier heads the Crescendo Mail Bees and would most certainly welcome you. We also have other mailings periodically. Hosting or playing a Tuesday Noon Recital - you can even do this jointly with another member (for instance by including vocal or solo instrumental music to accompany) Helping with chapter events serving as greeter/usher/host; co-sponsoring an event between your church/synagogue/ other professional organization and the chapter Making phone calls an occasional need Writing an article or submitting photos to Crescendo Encouraging membership!! Digital Organ Rental Delivery, Installation, Voicing and Pick-Up Weekly or Monthly Rates Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Maryland 610-797-2910 505 East Emmaus Avenue - Allentown, PA 18103

8 TUESDAY NOON RECITALS Andrew Heller, Coordinator 610-789-0146 TuesdayNoon@agophila.org Church of the Loving Shepherd Host Kathleen Scheide 1066 New Street, West Chester PA 19382 610-692-8280 www.lovingshepherd.org May 5 Edward Landin May 12 Martha Johnson May 19 Kathleen Scheide A lovely harmonium may be part of the recital May 26 Leah Martin Tuesday Noontime Concerts return to the Church of the Loving Shepherd at Bournelyf, West Chester, for May events. Recitals will be presented on the 2-manual tracker organ by Darron Wissinger, New Hampshire. Edward Landin will play a new work by resident organist Kathleen Scheide. Martha Johnson will focus on earlier repertoire. Kathleen Scheide will play lesser-known works by Pescetti and Drischner. Leah Martin is preparing a varied program. Bournelyf ( spring of life ) is a 20-acre former Penn land grant farm, now home to Church of the Loving Shepherd as well as Bournelyf Special Camp and other meetings. The chapel that houses the organ is a converted 1740 stone barn. The plaster-over-stone walls, black walnut floors, and expansive cubic airspace create a warm acoustic that is appreciated for frequent chamber music offerings in the series Chamber Music at Bournelyf, as well as during services. In May everyone has a chance to also experience solo organ music in this unique setting. Venues 2014-2015 October: Carmel Presbyterian Church 100 Edge Hill Road, Glenside, PA 19038 Abigail Palmisano, host; 215-887-1074 Austin 3m, Walker additions November: Ardmore Presbyterian Church 5 W. Montgomery Avenue, Ardmore PA 19003 Gary Garletts, host; 610-642-6650 Moller 1959 3m, Luley rebuild 2003 December: Trinity Episcopal Church 708 S. Bethlehem Pike, Ambler PA 19002 Steven Schreiber, host; 215-646-0416 Schantz 1989, 3-39 January: St. Luke s UCC 125 N. Main St., North Wales, PA 19454 Jon Leight, host; 215-699-9342 Moller 2m February: Abington Presbyterian Church 1082 Old York Road, Abington PA 19001 Ethel Geist, John Sall, hosts; 215 887-4830 Moller 1969 3m, rebuilt 2014 March: White Horse Village 535 Grayville Road, Newtown Square PA 19073 Andrew Heller, host; 610-246-6826 Johannus 2m April: St. Mary s Episcopal Church, Cathedral Village 630 E. Cathedral Road, Philadelphia 19128 Wesley Parrott, host; 215 482-6300 Moller/Murphy 2m May: Church of the Loving Shepherd 1066 New St., West Chester PA 19382 Kathleen Scheide, host; 610-692-8280 Wissinger tracker. 2m A reception will follow each program. Audience members are warmly invited to bring a fuller lunch to enjoy before or after each program by the pond, labyrinth or butterfly garden.

9 POSITIONS AVAILABLE Robert G. Carson, Coordinator 267-634-9271 Placement@agophila.org We are happy to advertise positions available for churches in the Greater Philadelphia Area as a free service. We need to request that all ads stay within a 250 word limit applicants should be directed to the church for further information. We would also be very grateful if churches encourage their organists to join our chapter and many include dues payment as a contract perk! Organist/Accompanist Media Presbyterian Church 30 E Baltimore Ave, Media, PA 19063 Posted: 3/26/15 Seeking an accomplished organist to support corporate and choral singing, and partner with others in creating a musical context for worship. This part-time position requires: a high level of technical competence and creative versatility on both organ and piano; ability to work harmoniously with a variety of age groups, musical combinations, and levels of proficiency; ability to master our three-manual Cornel Zimmer organ with 96 stops (23 pipe ranks, 63 digital ranks) and full midi capability; ability to skillfully navigate a variety of styles ranging from traditional sacred music to more contemporary genres; and ability to utilize the internet efficiently for prompt communication and planning. The successful candidate will work in partnership with a dynamic, flexible team including our music director, choir director, and other musicians. Together, they will encourage and support a robust lay music ministry. Contact Larisa Forest, Director of Music Ministries larisa@mpc.church, 610-566-3944 x31. Organist/Accompanist St. John s Lutheran Church 355 St. John s Circle, Phoenixville, PA 19460 www.stjohnphoenixville.org Posted: 3/23/15 St. John s Lutheran Church of Phoenixville, PA (a suburb of Philadelphia) is seeking applications for the position of Organist and Choir Accompanist. The organist plays for all worship services except Evening Light on Saturday and accompanies the adult choir at Wednesday evening rehearsals. Working with the music director and pastors, the organist prepares worship music that fits the liturgical style of the congregation which utilizes the ELW and seasonally changes the liturgical setting. St. John s is a dynamic community of faith, with a strong passion for vibrant music supported by a 51 rank Aeolian-Skinner organ enlarged by 35 ranks of Robert Walker electronics. This is a part-time position (approximately 12-15 hours per week). Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references to Tom Snyder, Director of Music, at ftsiii@gmail.com. Applications will be received through May 15, 2015. Requisite qualifications for the position will be: Bachelor s degree in music or equivalent experience Minimum of seven to ten years of experience as a church organist and choir accompanist Ability to lead and accompany on organ, piano, and electronic keyboard Experience and competence playing a variety of styles of church music ranging from traditional to light contemporary Experience in a liturgical worship setting preferred Director of Music Ministry St. Basil the Great Church 2300 Kimberton Road, Kimberton, PA 19442 Deacon Patrick Stokely patrickstokely@gmail.com Fax: (610) 993-7590 Posted: 3/1/15 This is a year round position which reports to the Director of Liturgy. The Director of Music Ministry is responsible for planning, coordination, execution, and oversight of all music associated with worship, religious education, social ministry, and evangelization in the parish, including weekend Masses, weddings, funerals, and other special liturgies and sacramental celebrations. The Director of Music Ministry will direct and accompany parish choirs, as well as recruit and train cantors. Additional key responsibilities include attending parish liturgical committee meetings, fostering the talents and commitment of the parish s volunteer musicians, scheduling cantors and accompanists, and developing and encouraging the full, conscious, and active participation of those attending Mass by empowering them to sing. Ideally, we seek a person who is a practicing faith-filled Catholic, knowledgeable in Roman Catholic liturgical practices and music, competent with diverse musical styles, and proficient in organ and piano, with demonstrated choral conducting skills, pastoral skills and sensitivity, organizational, communication, and planning skills, and ability to work collaboratively with a broad spectrum of people. The Director of Music Ministry must undergo background checks and maintain compliance with all Archdiocesan Safe Environment Requirements. Appropriate education (bachelor s degree or higher in music) and previous music ministry experience are preferred. Interested and qualified applicants should send their resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to: Deacon Patrick Stokely. Continued on page 10

10 Positions Available Continued from page 9 Music Ministry Coordinator St. Joseph Parish 460 Manor Avenue, Downingtown, PA 19335 610-269-8294 Posted: 2/25/15 Part time job opening for a Music Ministry Coordinator. This position requires an individual with a collaborative approach who can plan and coordinate the music program to shepherd a thriving and diverse music ministry that invites parishioner participation during the liturgies. Must have a working knowledge of the organ, keyboard, and other instruments. Must possess an ability to work with technology and have strong computer skills. A Bachelor s degree in music is required. Email cover letter and resume by April 6th to Julie Wiant, Business Manager at Juliew@stjosephrc.org Music Director St. Jude & the Nativity 203 Germantown Pike, Lafayette Hill, PA 19444 610-941-6666 www.stjudeandthenativity.org Posted: 2/24/2015 Seeking a part time Music Director. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency on the organ and piano, excellent interpersonal skills and should have at least two years working experience in music ministry; working experience with the Episcopal Church Lectionary and familiarity with the Liturgy is a plus. The Music Director will have responsibility for the choir and should have experience rehearsing and conducting music with SATB or SAB arrangements. Flexibility and excellent organizational skills required. The position requires approximately 5 hours per week on a regular basis and 10-18 hours depending on the season (Christmas, Easter etc). Interested candidates should respond with their resume/cv and cover letter by March 15, 2015. We would like to recognize a hardworking volunteer, Robert Carson. Many of you probably do not realize that he has moved out of our area, and yet continues to ably handle our Positions Available. He has graciously agreed to continue in that post until the end of this season (June,) and we are very appreciative! We will need someone for him to pass the mantle to for next season would YOU be able to help? This involves taking information sent by churches in the area, making sure print ads are a maximum of 250 words for Crescendo, keeping track of listings to make sure filled positions are removed, and sending materials about positions to Tom Lever and myself for Crescendo and the web site. Robert started a very helpful policy of limiting the amount of time listings run, which has also helped keep things as current as possible! Many thanks for all you do, Robert, and best wishes in your new digs! MEC

11 SUNDAY SUBSTITUTES The codes preceding each name have the following meanings: S = Available to play on a Sunday, O = Available to play other services such as weddings/funerals/weekdays, C = will also direct a choir This list is published as a courtesy to the chapter membership. Although the AGO assumes no responsibility for the musicianship or reliability of substitute organists, Guild certificates and other degree programs indicate preparation beyond the minimum. Please note: This list includes only current members of the Philadelphia Chapter. To be included on this list, please be sure your membership is current and forward your information to Tom Lever at webmaster@agophila.org or 215-855-0287. Code Substitute Location Phone Number SOC Frederick K. Astmann Cherry Hill, NJ 856-424-3820 SOC Debra S. Bacak Sellersville, PA 215-257-0553 SOC Mary Eliz. Campbell, CAGO Phoenixville, PA 484-995-6110 SOC Doris J. Dabrowski SPC Philadelphia, PA 215-387-6635 SOC Adam F. Dieffenbach Telford, PA 267-738-2326 SOC Joyce Drayton Philadelphia PA 215-635-5778 SOC Maria de J. Ellis Ardmore, PA 610-896-6189 SO Karen B. Fallows SPC Hatfield, PA 215-822-6762 SOC Susanna Faust West Chester, PA 610-766-1812 SO Ruth D. Fisher AAGO ChM Media, PA 610-891-1269 SOC Jeremy J. Flood CAGO Philadelphia, PA 215-625-2747 SOC Louise M. Gerdelmann Souderton, PA 215-723-6975 SOC Adam P. Haines Philadelphia, PA 717-487-1006 SOC Michael C. Huffman Allentown, PA 610-433-6563 SOC Raymond Johnson Cheltenham, PA 215-635-9944 SOC Joel E. Klingman SPC Southampton, PA 215-355-8445 SOC Thomas S. Lever Lansdale, PA 215-855-0287 SOC Joseph Lindsay Allentown, PA 610-797-2510 SOC David Clark Little Feasterville, PA 215-953-0352 S Chiduzie Madubata Philadelphia, PA 301-919-9632 Organists on this list are available to play Sunday services Code Substitute Location Phone Number S Elizabeth A. Manus St. Davids, PA 610-293-9002 SOC Paul R. Marchesano Philadelphia, PA 215-287-8955 SOC Mardia Melroy Ambler, PA 215-646-1975 SOC Constance H. Mickel Bryn Mawr, PA 610-527-9514 SOC William Miller Philadelphia, PA 215-533-1121 SO Irina Nenartovich, CAGO Cherry Hill, NJ 856-321-3465 SO Patricia Nyce King of Prussia, PA 267-252-3020 SOC Kirsten K. Olson Collegeville, PA 610-764-6264 SOC Patricia A. Pezick Blue Bell, PA 610-405-3736 SOC Katherine J. Reier SPC Abington, PA 215-287-9939 SOC Katherine Rick Wayne, PA 517-945-3448 SOC Mark Rippel Newtown Square, PA 610-353-2763 SOC Barbara Haddad Romesburg Drexel Hill, PA 610-446-3540 SOC Jeffrey J. Shuman, FAGO, ChM Lightstreet, PA 570-784-1574 SOC Janet L. Tebbel Philadelphia, PA 267-250-7727 SOC Fran Treisbach West Norriton Twp, PA 484-231-1426 SOC John W. Van Sant Trenton, NJ 609-498-1768 SC Jeff Varner Lansdale, PA 267-342-3095 SOC Karen Whitney Philadelphia, PA 215-424-8450 S John C. Williams Doylestown, PA 215-622-1015 is 58-stop Rudy Lucente Design is the culmination of his many years of experience in the Catholic music tradition. Employing TM Allen s advanced Quantum technology,, the organ is designed with the versatility for both worship and concert use. The stoplist includes principal choruses on all divisions and pendent Festival Trumpet. Stoplist Library TM offers s the flexib seven specifications to complement any style of music. The process of creating this organ was an exciting and rewa experience. The combination of Allen s s superior technologyy and their flexibilityy has resulted in a trulyy comprehensive instrument. Rudy Lucente Contact us for more information on this unique instrument, as well as organs starting at $16k! 1.877.GRAFTON (1.877.472.3866) 215.723.6900 www.grafton-organ.com www.graftonpiano.com

12 OTHER SUBSTITUTES These organists are NOT available to play Sunday services The codes preceding each name have the following meanings: O = Available to play other services such as weddings/funerals/weekdays, C = will also direct a choir This list is published as a courtesy to the chapter membership. Although the AGO assumes no responsibility for the musicianship or reliability of substitute organists, Guild certificates and other degree programs indicate preparation beyond the minimum. Please note: This list includes only current members of the Philadelphia Chapter. To be included on this list, please be sure your membership is current and forward your information to Tom Lever at webmaster@agophila.org or 215-855-0287. Code Substitute Location Phone Number OC Lucas C. Brown Philadelphia, PA 267-474-8476 OC D. Stephen Cable Bethlehem, PA 484-866-6019 O Ronald Chancler, SPC Levittown, PA 267-679-6638 OC Linda J. Clark West Chester, PA 610-793-1606 O Ron Coles Philadelphia, PA 267-973-0323 OC Marjorie L. Cummings CAGO Philadelphia, PA 215-728-1530 OC Lee de Mets FAGO Chalfont, PA 215-997-0219 OC Thomas G Denny Spring City, PA 610-864-6143 OC Theodore W. Didden CAGO Ambler, PA 215-646-0294 OC Vincent Paul DiFrancesco Philadelphia, PA 215-498-2609 OC Sue Ellen Echard Harleysville, PA 610-585-5059 OC Paul Emmens AAGO, ChM West Chester, PA 610-692-7632 O Suzanne Erb Philadelphia, PA 215-568-5795 O Jonathan G. Fairchild Huntingdon Valley, PA 215-947-8340 OC Paul Fejko Philadelphia, PA 609-462-9000 O Patricia Gallo-Terrenzio Huntingdon Valley, PA 215-947-4759 OC William J. Gatens, FAGO, ChM Chester, PA 610-876-5617 OC Charles Glandorf Coopersburg, PA 610-416-1055 OC Eric Gombert Souderton, PA 267-471-7003 OC Peter Gowen Philadelphia, PA 215-776-7374 OC Lisa Guglielmo Glenmoore, PA 610-906-7740 O Timothy Harrell Doylestown, PA 215-297-5812 O H. Ray Hunsicker West Chester, PA 610-399-4358 Code Substitute Location Phone Number OC Grete Ingalls, CAGO Philadelphia, PA 267-253-4007 OC Helen Jauregui Philadelphia, PA 215-498-0982 OC Beth Z. Jenkins Oreland, PA 215-885-7275 OC D. Damien Jones Wilmington, DE 215-432-2178 OC Sandor Kadar, AAGO Newtown, PA 609-540-6548 OC Ryan Kelly Chester Springs, PA 903-758-3535 OC Maria Lennon Hatboro, PA 215-896-9484 O Glenn M. Matis Doylestown, PA 215-489-2548 OC Steven J. McBride West Chester, PA 610-633-3442 OC Lee F. Milhous Doylestown, PA 215-348-8872 OC Wesley D. Parrott Philadelphia, PA 215-732-6732 OC Aaron C. Patterson Philadelphia, PA 215-725-0959 O Margaret Realley Doylestown PA 215-345-8564 O Ruth E. Rineer Cheltenham, PA 267-536-5706 OC Valerie Rozek Chesterbrook, PA 440-478-8163 O Alexander M. Smith King of Prussia, PA 610-680-8162 OC Judith F. B. Stebner Warminster, PA 215-630-9632 OC Robert J. Stoop Philadelphia, PA 267-745-5709 OC Bruce J. Thorsen Doylestown,. PA 215-622-1023 OC F. Anthony Thurman Cherry Hill, NJ 856-616-2480 O John M. Woznisky Paoli, PA 484-318-7092 O Jerry L. E. Wright Collingdale, PA 610-586-7381 Carolyn Boxmeyer Flutist 215.333.8833 D e n n i s E l w e l l Overbrook Presbyterian Church - Philadelphia Sándor Kádár, A.A.G.O. Organist, Conductor, Accompanist, Improvisor St. Andrew Catholic Church Newtown, Pennsylvania sandorkadar.com Mary Elizabeth Campbell, C.A.G.O. Music Therapist MAMT BC Private Music Teacher, Therapist, EDMR Practitioner Rudolph A. Lucente Asst. Wanamaker Grand Court Organ Roy Harker Church of Saint Asaph Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania

13 Kimmel Day

14 Olivier ier Messiaen siaen L Ascension sion Andrew Senn, organist Sunday, May 17th at 4pm 21st & Walnut Streets, Philadelphia hia Photo by MEC

15 Organist Thomas Herzer to tour US Article submitted by Vincent M. Ryan Thomas Herzer, organist at the Castle Church, Wittenberg, Germany, will tour the United States this spring, to help raise funds for a new chancel organ. He will make a local stop at historic Augustus Lutheran Church in Trappe on Friday May 8, 7:00pm. The Castle Church in Wittenberg is the historic place where the Lutheran Reformation started almost 500 years ago. On October 3st 1517 Dr. Martin Luther nailed his famous 95 theses at the door of the Castle Church. A worldwide movement was started. Each year 200,000 people from all over the world visit this historic site which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. The Castle Church is the chapel of the seminary in Wittenberg and serves as the church for the Castle Church Congregation. The seminary and the Castle Church Congregation are preparing themselves in many ways to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017. The Chancel organ is an important part of these preparations: Only a few feet from the famous Theses Door, an organ will find its new place and new task in 2016. In 1965 the organ builder Schuke from Potsdam built an instrument in the auditorium of the seminary in Wittenberg. This organ has two manuals, pedal and 16 ranks. As part of the great building projects for 2017 the seminary will move into the castle next to the Castle Church. Therefore the organ needs a new place. Instead of putting the organ in the relatively small new auditorium of the seminary, the organ will be put in the chancel of the Castle Church next to the choir stalls. There, in the front of the church, many more people will be able to hear and appreciate the organ. The seminary organ will find its new place hidden behind the choir stalls on the north side. This is necessary due to the classification of the church as a historical monument. The organ can t be seen, but, can be heard! An instrument in the choir area of the church is needed for concerts with choir and orchestra, worship, and devotional services (especially those held in the chancel area). In order to do this, technical changes must be made to the organ: a new movable console and an electrical action have to be built. Besides that, the addition of two ranks is planned. By moving the organ to the church, an old treasure will be preserved and will be appreciated by many visitors from all over the world. The neo-baroque sound of this instrument will perfectly complement the tone of the existing historical Ladegast organ in the balcony (built in 1863). The Castle Church in Wittenberg has become an important pilgrimage place for not only Lutherans but others from all over the world. Many choirs and organists from America have shared their musical talents in the Castle Church. The new chancel organ will help many people from all over the world who come to sing the most famous hymn by Dr. Martin Luther, A Mighty Fortress is Our God! Thomas Herzer has been the music director of the Castle Church in Wittenberg since 2003. He shares this position with his wife Sarah. As an important part of their work, they teach church music and liturgy at the seminary. Thomas studied at the Church Music Conservatory in Halle where he earned his Master Degree in 2003. As part of these studies he spent two semesters as a guest student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where he studied Organ Performance with Dr. Quentin Faulkner. The Castle Church ministry includes a Chamber Choir, a Gospel Choir, a Brass Ensemble and a Handbell Choir. The Gospel Choir is a wonderful example of how church music can be an outreach to people who have never had any contact with a church congregation. Especially in East Germany, where only 15 percent of the population are Christians, church music is an important tool for mission work. In 2013, the Gospel Choir toured the Philadelphia and New York areas, in their first visit to the United States. They are slated to return to our area in the spring of 2016. Continued on page 16

16 Thomas Herzer Continued from page 15 Augustus Lutheran Church is located at 717 W Main St, Trappe, PA 19426. It is fitting that Mr. Herzer will make a stop here, since this is the place where Henry Melchior Muhlenberg arrived from Germany in 1742 and settled. In 1742, the congregation built a church that still stands today, and remains the oldest unchanged Lutheran church building in the US. Plan to join us for the concert on Friday, May 8, 7:00pm. There will be a free-will offering to help raise funds for the new chancel organ at the Castle Church. This event is sponsored in part by Advent Lutheran Chruch, Harleysville, PA. For more information, contact Vincent M. Ryan, music@adventharleysville.org, 215.256.9941. Disposition of the new Chancel Organ: I. Manual (C-g ): 1. Principal 8 * 2. Quintadena 8 3. Rohrflöte 8 4. Principal 4 5. Gemshorn 2 6. Mixtur 4/5f 7. Krummhorn 8 8. Tremulant II. Manual (C-g ): 9. Holzgedackt 8 10. Salicional 8 * 11. Blockflöte 4 12. Quinte 2 2/3 13. Principal 2 14. Terz 1 3/5 15. Cymbel 3f 16. Tremulant Pedal (C-f ): 17. Subbaß 16 18. Principal 8 *Transmission from I 19. Spitzflöte 8 20. Choralbaß 4 *Transmission from I. 21. Rohrflötenbaß 2 22. Schallmei 4 The ranks marked with * are new stops that were not built in 1965.

17 WHERE AM I? This column is taking early vacation If you d like more for next season, please help by sending interesting shots of instruments!! Thank you in advance. TALE PIPES Mary Elizabeth Campbell, Editor Crescendo@agophila.org Poetic Musings on the Season Bar Mitzvahs, Graduations, Weddings, Confirmations, Long solemn liturgies Followed by dip or cheese... Long preparation Festive celebration Musician after a taxing sonata Recovering with some lovely Ricotta, Scampering kids dodging seniors with walkers All mixing it up with so many talkers, Music integral to life and her milestones, Shared experience heightened by lovely tones! Photo by MEC The pipes pictured in the April issue belong to the instrument in the home of Fred Haas. Photo by MEC

NEWSLETTER OF THE PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN GUILD OF ORGANISTS Katherine Reier, Circulation Coordinator 1936 Guernsey Avenue Abington, PA 19001-3702