The Cape Cod Chapter received its charter in 1951 and began with 13 organists. Today it is a growing chapter with 98 chapter members and friends. In early 2006, the Chapter underwent a name change and is now officially titled the Cape Cod and the Islands Chapter. This page serves to track important moments during the history of the chapter.

Mr. Heeremans retired to Cape Cod after a distinguished musical career, succeeding S. Lewis Elmer, the legendary National AGO President. He served in that capacity from 1958-1964, instituting many innovative policies during his tenure. He was not new to this arena, as he had directed the music at Union Chapel in Oak Bluffs on the Vineyard for many summers. Born and educated in England, he had early training in instrumental and church music. In the early '30s, he immigrated to Quebec, where he taught violin and piano, and played theater organ. Love for this pursuit took him to New York City, where he began a series of church positions and recital experiences leading to his being known country-wide. He was an esteemed faculty member of the Music Department at New York University beginning in 1936. Mr. Heeremans retired to the Cape and took the position of Director of Music/Organist at the First Congregational Church in Falmouth, Massachusetts. He held this position until he was into his early 90's at which he finally retired. The end of his life found him as a resident in an assisted living community on the Cape, where he played a short piano recital every Monday afternoon to the delight of the other residents.

Please contact our Historian/Archivist, Josette J. Goff SPC by clicking on the Contact Us link or send a to 28 Monomoy Circle, Chatham, MA 02633 if you are interested in learning more about the history of the Cape Cod Chapter AGO or you have material to submit to the archives.