The Norfolk Chapter of the American Guild of Organists was organized in 1954 by Dr. Charles Vogan, Professor of Organ and Musicology at Old Dominion University. Dr. Vogan served as the first chapter Dean and was active until his death in 1986. Due to increasing membership from other cities, the name was changed to the Tidewater Chapter, effective 1982, and includes members from Williamsburg, Newport News, Hampton, Norfolk, Suffolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, and Elizabeth City, North Carolina. A major chapter project is The Organ Swell, a 3 week series of recitals for organ and instruments held annually in the spring, in conjunction with the Virginia Arts Festival. The chapter welcomes all with an interest in the organ!
The Tidewater Chapter proudly celebrated its 50th Anniversary Year in 2004-2005. A year of special events culminated with the hosting of a Pipe Organ Encounter for Teenagers in July 2005.
Tidewater Chapter hosted the Region III Convention in July 2009!