The purpose of the American Guild of Organists is to promote
the organ in its historic and evolving roles, to encourage
excellence in the performance of organ and choral music, and
to provide a forum for mutual support, inspiration,
education, and certification of the Guild members.
The American Guild of Organists (AGO) is
the national professional association serving the organ and
choral music fields. The Guild serves approximately 20,000
members in 348 chapters throughout the United States, and in
Europe, Korea and Argentina.
Founded in 1896 as both an educational
and service organization, the Guild seeks to set and
maintain high musical standards and to promote understanding
and appreciation of all aspects of organ and choral music.
Under the leadership
of the National Council, a network of volunteer committees
and officials at the regional, district, and local levels
directs the activities of the Guild. The AGO National
Headquarters is in New York City where a full time staff
supports and coordinates publication, administration, and
development activities of the organization. For purposes of
administration and representation, the Guild is divided into
nine geographical regions, and each chapter is assigned to
one of them.
The purposes of the American Guild of
Organists are: