Congregational Church

Saturday 3 February 2018 at 2.00pm

Twelve organists took part in the Annual Recital, seven fewer than last year, but with no less enjoyment and with some high quality playing. Two players are still at school, one in Year 7, one in Year 13. A tremendous variety of musical style was presented, everything from John Redford, Buxtehude and Bach to John Ireland, Hendrik Andriessen, Flor Peeters and William Lloyd Webber. Richard Pilliner introduced the programme, notes having been provided by each player. Following the recital an enjoyable and welcome tea was served to all players and their guests. Everyone who took part played well, and the performance of Capriccio by John Ireland, played by new member Ashley Valentine, Organist of St Giles, Camberwell, aroused particular excitement. Here is a list of the players and their pieces.

We also welcomed a special guest, Mrs Mary Graham, Head of Music at Kingsdale School, who gave up an afternoon in her busy schedule to hear her Year 7 pupil make his debut on this occasion. Such encouragement to the young is very valuable.

The Society remains indebted to Marilyn Nicholson, whose unflagging generosity caters for everyone who wishes to practise at times convenient to them, to the Minister of the Church, Rev Pam Owen, and to church members who provided the welcome tea, very warming on a cold rainy day.

Marilyn Harper, Immediate Past Chair