The Rockford Chapter of the American Guild of Organists (AGO) is hosting a Pipe Organ Encounter Plus from June 14th-19th, 2026.

A Pipe Organ Encounter Plus (POE+) is a 5-day experience for adults. Participants should be 18 or older, want to play the organ or currently play the organ in a church or synagogue, and be interested in improving their organ skills. POE+ offers instruction in basic technique, pedaling, improvisation, registration for beginners to advanced, and skills such as hymn playing, sight reading and transposition. Participants will have opportunities to visit several churches in Rockford and play a variety of organs.

Among the many recitalists featured is world renowned organist Katelyn Emerson, who has performed concerts across North America, Europe and Asia. David Cherwien, distinguished composer, conductor and organist, will also lead a Hymn Festival at Trinity Lutheran Church, featuring many of his own hymn settings.

Also on faculty is Tyler Canonico, Rhonda Sider Edington, Carol Feather-Martin, Matthew Haider, Andrew Schaeffer, Shelly Moorman-Stahlman, and John Wigal.

For more information and registration, please visit https://www.rockfordago.org