Margaret Smith McAlister honored

Margaret Smith McAlister, a member of the Tampa, FL, chapter of the AGO since 1940, was honored during the chapter's annual "Bach Bash" on Tuesday, March 22, 2011. In recognition of Margaret's commitment to young organists, the chapter named their organ scholarship fund in her honor. The first recipient of the "Margaret Smith McAlister Scholarship for Beginning Organists" was Benjamin Parker.

On behalf of the membership of Region IV, Laura Ellis, Councillor, joined in the festivities by presenting Margaret with a "Distinguished Service Award." 

Margaret is in her 65th year as organist at First Presbyterian, Tampa. Not only was she honored during the evening, she performed a Bach chorale prelude as well! Margaret -- thanks for being such an inspiration!

Margaret Smith McAlister, seated

From left to right:

Nancy Callahan, Tampa AGO Dean;

Michael Hunter, Florida District Convener; 

Scholarship recipient Benjamin Parker;

Laura Ellis, Councillor, Region IV