The Positiv Division

We'd like to share with you some of the positive things going on in the chapter.
If you'd like to contribute, send an email to our Webmaster Larry Blackburn (larryb84097@gmail.com) or visit our Contact page.
We reserve the right to edit your comments to keep them anonymous, and Positiv.

October 16 Masterclass with Dr. Clay Christiansen

"As far as AGO events go, this was one of the best."

"Thank you so much for all the time and effort you put into organizing the AGO events. It is always fun to play for others, and I appreciate the opportunity. I will also be able to use some of Clay's comments especially regarding the crescendo prior to the resurgence of the initial theme."

"I’m so glad I was able to participate. To be able to gain Clay’s insights into the performance is, as you say, worth a fortune. Thanks again! I’m excited to be involved with AGO."

August "15-minutes of Fame" at The Cathedral of the Madeleine (photos)

"I'm really thrilled to be a member of one of the greatest "organ"-izations of all time!
Even though I am not yet an experienced organist I feel that having had the unique experience of personal instruction with Seth while playing such a marvelous instrument in the historic Cathedral of the Madeleine is the beginning of fulfilling my dreams of playing the organ!
Thank you, so much, for allowing me this unforgettable, life-changing experience!"

"Just sitting at the organ I recognized that my heart was racing and my fingers were trembling. Soon I heard the words "go ahead, play!" It was a thrill to hear the glorious sounds coming forth from the organ pipes. Having the opportunity to play was an exciting, emotional experience for me. Thank you for the memorable event. May it happen again."

Super Saturday (Jan. 6 2010) (photos)

"I just want to tell you again how wonderful yesterday was. When I think of how you pulled off having so many people come (we were blessed with abundance!) it was wonderful! The classes were all excellent. I didn't hear one complaint - just a lot of excitement. A great group of presenters. ...I was just excited about what I had seen and heard and am still excited today. You should all be very proud. You brought off a great activity."

"What a delightful day I had at the AGO Super Saturday! Your line-up of choral presenters was top notch, impressive and very helpful. That was such a good idea to bring in choral people to mingle with organists; it had the effect of elevating us all musically. JoAnn Ottley is always a draw, but what a neat opportunity it was to meet Ryan Murphy. Thanks for bringing him into the picture. Bonita was just great, and so enthusiastic. I didn't get a chance to talk to Josie, but I just have to say how impressed I was with her beautiful singing. She is really something! And to think she got her start at Lowell Elementary!"

"I loved the keynote address by Jerry Ottley and the final recital by Clay Christiansen, Your excellent planning was evident in providing lunch as well as great educational and musical nutrition. There just wasn't a better place to be that Saturday than where we were. Thanks for putting that event together, and for making it available not only to organists but to choral musicians. All five people I informed about this event attended, and they felt the same way I do. I hope I stay on your list to be notified if you do this again..."

"My hat goes off to you, Ingrid, Larry, Harry and all who made that Super Saturday such a huge success. I only wish I could have attended more of the sessions myself! Don Cook's students were fantastic, also. I was honored to be a part of it. We’re blessed to have that wonderful facility and that great organ."

"The Super Saturday was completely awesome. Unfortunately I had to leave during the 3rd hour and missed Clay's recital which I hear was great. In the future, conducting workshops and especially choral reading sessions must be part of the deal!! "

Tabernacle Open Console (Aug. 1 2009)

"I thought the open console went smoothly... Bill Hesterman and his helpers were very efficient in getting people on and off the bench on time and helping with the stops so it was a very enjoyable experience. Thanks for all your time arranging the event."

"I just wanted to write a quick note to thank both of you for your work in organizing the Tabernacle organ open console this past Saturday. I think it's fair to say that it was a fantastic and memorable experience for all of us who had a chance to play. Even my non-organist mom, who was visiting from California, was thrilled to be able to sit where the Tabernacle Choir sits! Everything ran smoothly (at least during the time I was there) and everyone was all smiles. It was also good to hear the talents of fellow AGO members, as well as meet some of those members who rarely come out to AGO events."

"Thank you very much everyone who helped get us on board. We enjoyed the experience very much... Thanks to David Greer and Jonathan who helped at the console. We enjoyed listening to the other organists in our group and the following group and stayed for Rick Elliott's concert at noon where he showed us all again how effective it is to play by memory. Best to you in the coming year in your new position(s) whatever they may be."

"Hot dog! I'll be happy to take you up on the offer, so please put me on your list."

"I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY THE ORGAN! I've never had a membership, and I don't know the cost, but PLEASE let me enroll."