A LOCAL organist has taken part in an international recital challenge that involves organists from across the world.
David King, director of music at St Mary the Virgin, Orchardleigh, took part at the weekend in a year-long recital series in celebration of the Royal College of Organists’ 150th anniversary.
His recital included music by Bach, Barnby and Howells amongst others. The recital was part of a series of events taking place throughout 2014, as the Royal College of Organists celebrates 150 years of working for the advancement and promotion of the best in organ playing and choral directing.
David said, “It is, of course, an honour to have taken part in this worldwide series of recitals and anything we can do to bring the work of the Royal College of Organists to people’s notice is important as churches are always complaining about a shortage of organists!
“The president of the college invited members of the college to put forward proposals for recitals and I’m glad to say that my proposal was accepted and I was part of the amazing event.”
Royal College of Organists’ president Catherine Ennis said, “The organ has been with us in its various forms for more than 2,000 years. The instrument, which Mozart so famously praised as ‘the King of instruments’, has influenced and shaped music, inspired the great composers, played an essential part in supporting worship in churches and adorned our concert halls.
“Today the organ sounds as brightly as ever through the rhythms of all of our lives, from christenings, weddings and funerals to our Christmas celebrations, great occasions of State and much more besides.
“We are extremely proud that the Royal College of Organists has reached this significant anniversary, and through the 150 for 150 Recital Challenge we hope to share our celebrations with everyone who has an interest in organ and choral music, whether through playing the organ, directing or singing in a choir, or through simple enjoyment of the music.”
For more information about he Royal College of Organists visit their website www.rco.org.uk