What is a Pipe Organ Encounter?

Pipe Organ Encounter (POE) was originally conceived as an opportunity to introduce teenagers to the pipe organ. Some twenty years later, the program continues to thrive and boasts an endless list of distinguished alumni who hold posts in churches, cathedrals, and academic institutions throughout the country. The success of POE is due in large part to the dedicated faculty who inspire and encourage students with a broad range of abilities to master the king of instruments. Former POE students repeatedly praise the program for the opportunity to study privately with renowned faculty, to play exceptional instruments, and to meet other friends who are passionate about the instrument.

Education Outreach of the American Guild of Organists

Pipe Organ Encounters is an educational outreach program of the American Guild of Organists (AGO). Major funding for Pipe Organ Encounters is provided by the Associated Pipe Organ Builders of America. Additional support is provided by the American Institute of Organbuilders. Permanently endowed AGO scholarships are provided in memory of Charlene Brice Alexander, Robert S. Baker, Seth Bingham, Clarence Dickinson, Philip Hahn, Charles N. Henderson, Alfred E. Lunsford, Ruth Milliken, Ned Siebert and Martin M. Wick; and in honor of Anthony Baglivi, Philip E. Baker, and Morgan and Mary Simmons.