Writes Samuel Hill, Music Administrator
We were delighted to welcome nearly thirty children from four local prep and primary schools to Merchant Taylors’ on Friday 1st May for an afternoon ‘Come and Play the Organ!’ workshop. The afternoon began with performances by Alex Pott (OMT) of Bach’s famous Toccata and Fugue in D minor and then Walton’s stirring Crown Imperial.
Alex then explained how he came to start playing the organ, having been inspired by the instrument whilst a chorister at Westminster Abbey. Mr Hobson then introduced the technical side of the organ, demonstrating how pipes sound, and the way in which everything is connected together inside the instrument. Chase L. (U3rds), who has only been learning the organ for a little while, then performed a short piece on the organ before the attendees dispersed, some to the Chapel, some to the Recital Hall, whilst others remained in the Great Hall. Under the direction of Mrs Stubbs, Mr Hobson, and Alex Pott, all of the children received a short lesson on the organ tailored to their own abilities and interests. At the end of the afternoon, everyone reconvened in the Great Hall for a short concert given by the children attending the afternoon.
