In December, 2014, twelve organists entered the 2015 competition. Working with a proctor, each competitor created a CD recording in January which was returned to AGO Headquarters in accordance with the procedure outlined in the rules. A panel of three judges, Pamela Ruiter-Feenstra, Emma Lou Diemer, and Jason Roberts, reviewed the recordings (which remained anonymous) and selected five semifinalists.
The upcoming semifinal round will be held in conjunction with the 2015 Southeast AGO Regional Convention in Charlotte on July 1, 2015 at First United Methodist Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. By showcasing the art of improvisation at a regional convention, the NCOI committee hopes to build interest throughout the Guild for this important art form.