AGO national convention opening event: Jan Kraybill and U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America
(CDT, UTC-05) (CDT, UTC-05)
Cox Auditorium, Principia College, 1 Maybeck Pl, Elsah, IL 62028
I'm thrilled to join the U.S. Air Force Band of Mid-America in the grand opening performance of the 2026 national convention of the American Guild of Organists. This concert celebrates the 250th birthday of the United States’ Declaration of Independence, adopted by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. This founding document severed the relationship of the original thirteen colonies with Great Britain, outlined basic philosophies regarding human rights and dignity, and established core principles of democratic government. Its creation involved difficult conversations and compromises, and it launched a country whose strength lies in our ability and courage to work together through difficult circumstances. Music has symbolized and inspired diverse voices in these conversations over the past 250 years. This is truly something to celebrate!
Planned repertoire includes:
JESSICA HUNT (b. 1987): Fanfare Exultate (premiere, commissioned for this concert)
FRANCIS SCOTT KEY (1779-1843), JOHN STAFFORD SMITH (1750-1836), arr. JEREMY MARTIN: The Star Spangled Banner
BRIAN PFOLTNER (b. 1962): Pikes Peak Overture
JOHN PHILIP SOUSA (1854-1932), arr. KENNETH SINGLETON: Liberty Bell March
Arr. ROBERT CRAY, MSgt JEREMY MARTIN, SrA PATRICK LENZ: Armed Services Medley
KATHARINE LEE BATES (1859-1929), SAMUEL A. WARD (1848-1903), arr. KAITLIN MCCARTHY: America the Beautiful
FELA SOWANDE (1905-1987): Go Down, Moses
JULIA WARD HOWE (1819-1910), arr. PETER J. WILHOUSKY: Battle Hymn of the Republic
MAX REGER (1873-1916): Variationen und Fuge über "Heil, dir im Siegerkranz" (My Country 'Tis of Thee)
CAMILLE SAINT-SAËNS (1835-1921), arr. KENNETH SINGLETON: Adagio and Finale from Symphony No. 3, "Organ"
For general information about the convention, and to inquire about obtaining tickets to this particular concert, visit https://www.agostl2026.org/. Visit often, as more information is posted frequently. Join me in attending the entire convention and be inspired by the many performers who will share music-making in St. Louis all week!