Founded in 1896

What is the AGO?

American Guild of Organists

The American Guild of Organists (AGO) is the national professional association serving the organ and choral music fields. Chartered in 1896 by the Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York, the AGO now serves over 15,000 members throughout the United States and in several foreign countries. There are over 300 local chapters with national headquarters in New York City.  The AGO is said to be the largest membership organization devoted to a single musical instrument.

The AGO publishes a monthly magazine, The American Organist, which is the most widely read journal devoted to organ and choral music in the world. It is the official journal of the American Guild of Organists dedicated to furthering its ideals, objectives, and cultural and educational aspirations; and it is the official magazine of the Associated Pipe Organ Builders of America.

Each summer the AGO holds conventions: a national convention in even-numbered years, and regional conventions in odd-numbered years.

For more information about the American Guild of Organists or The American Organist magazine, see the AGO National web site.

Mission, Vision, and Value Statement

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The mission of the American Guild of Organists is to foster a thriving community of musicians who share their knowledge and inspire passion for the organ.

The vision of the American Guild of Organists is to engage, support, and uplift every organist.

As a member of the American Guild of Organists you can

  • connect with other organists

  • enhance your skills as an organist and choral conductor

  • celebrate the organ in historic and evolving contexts

  • discover news of the organ and choral world online and in The American Organist

  • nurture new organists of all ages

  • share knowledge and expertise

  • enjoy camaraderie at chapter events and conventions

  • find inspiration and challenge

  • receive encouragement from colleagues

  • experience great organs and organists

  • access career opportunities and job listings

  • earn professional credentials through AGO certification

Approved by the National Council, 5/10/16