History and Purpose: For many years Kathryn Loew was a strong influence in the musical life of the Southwest Michigan Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Katy is the only person ever to serve twice as Dean and numerous committees had the benefit of her knowledge and dedication. Many young organists, as well as more seasoned performers, studied with her privately and at Kalamazoo College, Calvin College and Western Michigan University. Her colleagues in the Southwest Michigan Chapter of the AGO honored her by the establishment of a scholarship fund for the purpose of assisting young organists with their study. Her friends and family honored her at the time of her retirement from First Presbyterian Church and again at her passing with numerous memorials designated for the scholarship fund bearing her name. Honoring her life, her work and the intent of these gifts, the Southwest Michigan Chapter of the American Guild of Organists is pleased to offer financial assistance to organ students in the following manner:

First Priority: Financial assistance to high school students who wish to study organ at the Summer Seminar at Western Michigan University or at a “Pipe Organ Encounter”, offered throughout the United States by local AGO Chapters.

Second Priority: Financial assistance to college students attending an accredited college or university and studying organ privately with an organ instructor at that institution. Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo College, Calvin College, Hope College and any other accredited school offering organ instruction is acceptable.

Third Priority: Financial assistance for students who are pursuing a graduate degree in music or church music and are studying organ as part of a degree program at an accredited institution.

Fourth Priority: Financial subsidy for local Chapter events for the benefit of all members, such as a masterclass.

Eligibility: Individual financial assistance is given priority to members of the Southwest Michigan Chapter of the American Guild of Organists or students residing in our geographic area. If insufficient requests are received by the Board, assistance may be offered to students in other Michigan Chapters.

Application: Application for assistance should be in writing and directed to the Dean of the Southwest Michigan Chapter and include the materials listed above. Financial need is NOT a requirement for receiving a grant. Auditions may be required at the discretion of the Board. Membership in a local AGO Chapter is encouraged of all recipients. Grants will be considered twice a year.

Publicity: Availability of assistance will be publicized through our Chapter Newsletter.

Amount of Grants: The amount offered individuals will be determined by the Board, based upon expected earnings of the Scholarship Fund and the number of requests received. It is the intent to assist as many organists as possible. Compensation will be only for organ study and not given for related music classes. In no instance will a grant be more than the cost of the private lessons taken at an accredited school or more than the cost of tuition for Summer Seminar or “Pipe Organ Encounter”.