The LA AGO Podcast

Remember that moment when you were first captivated by an organ? When the sounds and sensations drew you in and piqued your curiosity? When you saw an organ console up close for the first time and was overwhelmed by its complexity? When you just knew you wanted to learn how to play one? We all have memories like this and stories to tell about them. In each episode of The LA AGO Podcast, host Thompson Howell speaks with a different member of the Los Angeles Chapter, and occasional special guests, about their own love affair with the organ and how that passion informs their particular involvement with the organ world today. It's not just about what you've done; it's about why you do what you do. Whether you’re a church musician, a concert organist, a teacher, an organ builder or technician, a composer who writes for the organ or simply a fan of the organ and its music, you’ll enjoy hearing the stories of people who are passionate about the organ at every level.

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The LA AGO Podcast

Episode 2 (Dr. James Vail)

August 15, 2020 • Host: Thompson Howell • Season 1 • Episode 2

0:00 | 39:44

In this episode, host Thompson Howell chats with Honorary Lifetime AGO Member and former LA Chapter Dean Dr. James Vail.

A native of Los Angeles with a long and distinguished career as a teacher and church musician spanning many decades, Jim shares his memories of his first exposure to the organ as a boy at First Baptist Church in Los Angeles and how he'd "practice" in the family car. He'll also talk about his desire early on to be a Minister; his time in Philadelphia attending the Curtis Institute of Music; his experience as a Chaplain's Assistant in the Army and accompanying the Brahms Requiem on a Hammond organ while stationed in Germany; his fondness for his tenure at St. John's Episcopal Church (now the Cathedral of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles) and his connection to the McFerrin family; his years teaching at the University of Southern California; his thoughts on what makes a good conductor; and memories of his 40 year tenure as Organist & Choirmaster at St. Alban's Episcopal Church. And more!

Listen at LAAGO.org or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

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