American Guild of Organists
Washington DC Chapter

Potomac Organ Institute

 

The Potomac Organ Institute (POI) was founded in 1988.  The institute encourages pianists to begin organ study, furthers interest in the pipe organ by offering free lessons to qualified applicant, and increases awareness for the need for well trained organists in the field today.

POI is supported by DC metro area AGO chapters: Potomac, MD; Washington, DC;  and Northern Virginia. It is staffed by local teachers and coordinators who volunteer their time and talents. Students are selected by an audition and interview that takes place annually. Pianists in the seventh grade to adults are encouraged to apply.

POI was founded in 1988 by Elizabeth de Ayala, DMA with the help of Maureen Jais-Mick and other members of the Potomac AGO Chapter. Their vision, to interest people in the field of church music through instruction on the pipe organ, has been faithfully transformed by the POI into one of the most productive means for increasing the ranks of church organists in our area.

Most of the talented pianists and beginning organists who enter the POI make remarkable progress during the year of free instruction they receive from local artists. Graduates of the POI often wish to continue developing their new organ skills by continuing study with a private teacher, as well as through colleges and universities.  Over the years, the POI has received feedback from former students expressing appreciation of the start they received through the POI scholarship and reporting that they are now in part-time to full-time church music positions.

The success of the POI can be attributed to the quality of organ teachers we have in the National Capital Region and the generous amount of time they devote to their students. In addition, the Chapters provide membership in AGO to the students. Auditions for prospective students are held annually and accepted scholars receive one year of free organ instruction from a volunteer Tri-Chapter Guild member with lessons from September through June. Students also participate in master classes and a POI spring recital, become members of their local AGO chapter, and receive a complimentary subscription to The American Organist.

Eligibility:
• Students in grades 7 and up, as well as adults
• With a good piano background
• With an interest in the organ
• Who has allocated time for practice each week
• Who is someone who would benefit from a year of organ instruction

Sample of repertoire to be performed during auditions:
1. Bach Prelude and Fugue/Invention
2. Classical Era Sonata Movement
3. Romantic to Modern Piece
4. Hymn Tune "St. Anne"
5. Sightreading
Two recommendations by a music teacher or colleague
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Expectations for scholarship recipients:
• Work on finding an organ practice instrument
• Dedicated, committed practice of at least 3-6 hours a week
• Ability for consistent weekly lessons
• Positive attitude and continued growth
• Attend a masterclass and outside organ recital
• Performance at an end of year recital. ​

Email novaago@gmail.com to schedule an audition and submit your application.