Mary Jean Sargent

sargent00By Linda Elissalde
The Sargents of Galveston, Texas are one fine musical family. Muli-talented mom Jean, sisters Mary Jean and Anna Leigh Sargent of EXODUS XV have performed for many venues. They graced the stage at our Jane Long Festival, played for Bay Vue UMC and entertained the Lafitte Society. Dad Bill Sargent is sometimes allowed to join them. (He is really good on the drums.)

The American Guild of Organists (AGO) is, as the name suggests, a guild of American organists. Mary Jean Sargent took the national collegiate exam for certification in the AGO last May. This exam consisted of performance of a required repertoire piece, accompaniment of a choral piece, accompaniment of a soprano solo, sight-reading, transposition and improvisation. Not only did Mary Jean pass, but she received the highest score of anyone in the United States that took the test this year.

Mary Jean may now use the letters CAGO (Collegiate American Guild of Organists) after her name. In addition she received a cash prize. “I spent it on sheet music. It seemed the right thing to do,” Mary Jean stated. Her name will be listed in the October issue of the AGO’s “The American Organist”.

This talented young lady shared her musical skills with admirers at an organ recital on October 1, 2017 at 4:00 PM in Moody Methodist Church. Mary Jean chose pieces that displayed the myriad musical aspects of performance on an organ. Audience thrilled to numbers both familiar and new. One of the many enjoyable moments occurred when Mary Jean was joined by her music teacher, the incomparable Marjorie Rasche on the piano, Bill Sargent as the drummer, Jean Sargent on the flute and Anna Leigh Sargent playing the violin. They presented “Awake and Sing!” composed by Mary Jean. Miss Sargent then thanked everyone who had helped her achieve her outstanding success. She received an enthusiastic standing ovation when she finished her final number.

Mary Jean Sargent before and after recital

Mary Jean Sargent before and after recital

Mom - Jean Sargent; Dad - Bill Sargent; Sister - Anna Leigh Sargent

Mom – Jean Sargent; Dad – Bill Sargent; Sister – Anna Leigh Sargent

Attendees gathered after this wonderful program to enjoy a spread of fruit and Sargent homemade cupcakes. The cakes were decorated with musical symbols. What a delicious ending to a magnificent concert! Thank you, Mary Jean Sargent, for such an enjoyable, inspiring performance.

[10-2-2017]

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