The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Scottish Federation of Organists’ 58th annual conference
Various venues in Dundee, May 4 and 5
No, it’s not a pipe dream – there really is a weekend dedicated to all things organ-related in Dundee.
This year marks the Scottish Federation of Organists’ 58th annual conference, and lovers of the instrument have packaged together a series of events to celebrate.
First up, on May 4, is a recital by Dundee-born Gordon Stewart, the renowned international concert organist.
Gordon, who is honorary president of the Friends of the Caird Hall Organ (Focho), will play alongside the Alba Brass Consort at St Mary Magdalene’s Church on Dudhope Crescent Road.
The following afternoon, on May 5, Martin Baker, the Master of Music at Westminster Cathedral, London, and president of the Royal College of Organists, will give a recital on the Caird Hall organ.
These are the only two events open to the public but the weekend will also include a talk from Dr James Mckellican on the history of the Caird Hall Organ, and a choral recital from the Chapel Choir of St Salvator’s Chapel, St Andrews University, under Tom Wilkinson. However, these will only be open to members of the Scottish Federation of Organists.
Dr Mckellican of Focho, said: “The event will be a musical treat for all ears.
“To get Martin Baker on board is quite a coup. It will be the first time he’ll have been in Scotland this year.
“Martin will be performing everything from Bach and beyond, including his own improvisations.
“The concert at St Mary Magdalene’s with Gordon Stewart and Alba Brass Consort will also be fantastic.
“The sound of organ and brass together is magnificent and the acoustics in the church are very good. It will be worthwhile coming along for the experience. The inclusion of the St Salvator’s Chapel Choir of St Andrews University indicates the collaboration between the music department of the university, the Tayside Organists’ Society and Friends of the Caird Hall Organ.”
Kevin Veal, president of the Scottish Federation of Organists, added: “The conference promises to be an occasion to enjoy some wonderful music and to renew, as well as to make, many friendships.”
The Caird Hall organ is a magnificent beast, as anyone lucky enough to have enjoyed listening to its lovely rich tone will know.
The organ, built by Harrison and Harrison of Durham in 1922 and installed in 1923, was designed by blind organist Alfred Hollins. Meanwhile, the organ in St Mary Magdalene’s was rebuilt in 1937 by Rothwell of Harrow.
www.focho.org