Presented by: Jillian Gardner, MM, Convener of AGOYO Location: Hyatt Regency - Learning Center Mental wellness is a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and can make a positive contribution to his or her community. Wellness also affects how we relate to others and our ability to deliberate choices. Performance anxiety can come in all forms, including performing concerts, dealing…

Presented by: Alexander Meszler, MM Location: Hyatt Regency - Learning Center Secularity in the United States is on the rise. Though the organ faces many obstacles in the twenty-first century — a shortage of organists, financial troubles and declining interest in classical music, among others — no other issue is as all-encompassing and as serious as secularization. Moreover, no topic is as unaddressed. To unpack this multifaceted issue, Meszler will summarize current trends in research on nonreligion and secularization to…

Presented by: Dr. Darlene Kuperus Location: Hyatt Regency - Learning Center Three American women born right before the Depression. Three women with distinguished and highly successful careers as musicians. Three women who began their musical journeys during the post-WWII era, a time when women's career goals were often pushed aside so that men could find jobs after returning from the war. Yet none of these women let that stop them from pursuing their talents and dreams. They are musical legends…

Presented by: Jillian Gardner, MM, Convener of AGOYO Location: Hyatt Regency - Learning Center Conservatory education depends on a student’s self-motivation to practice and achieve perfection. As a musician, this equates to long hours in the practice room alone, staring at a score. Success is measured by perfection and the ability to withstand and flourish in a self-disciplined environment. However, most organists continue on to work in a church in the realm of sacred music. While practicing, perfection and self-discipline…

Presented by: Jordan Prescott, MM Location: Learning Center What is the difference between a personal statement, a statement of intent, and a cover letter? What should be in a curriculum vitae? How can I increase my chances for financial aid? Beyond the preparation of audition repertoire, these questions — and many others — can be an extremely stressful and intimidating aspect of the application for graduate study. This workshop will address these topics and provide attendees with practical advice from…

Presented by: Jillian Gardner, MM, Convener of AGOYO Location: Hyatt Regency - Learning Center Not all collegiate organ majors are solely destined to be strictly a church organist or concert organist, so how do you find your niche as our profession is changing? How do you establish yourself in a new community of professionals? We will also discuss some of the challenges faced by young organists, including being a new music staff person in a church with long-time choir members…