An exciting new platform for young organists is being created at the Charles Wood Summer School in Armagh this August
This inaugural Northern Ireland International Organ Competition will take place on Monday 22 and Tuesday 23 August at the Charles Wood Summer School.
The Chairman, Roger Nesbitt, writes:
“Each August since 1993 the Charles Wood Summer School has provided a week of events, offering anyone interested in singing or playing music the opportunity to experience inspiring concerts and recitals, and develop new skills in workshops and seminars.
“We are fortunate that the Charles Wood Singers, drawn from across Ireland and the UK, will again benefit from the expert guidance of our Artistic Director, Dr David Hill and Assistant Director, Daniel Hyde, while the Boys’ Choir will be directed by Nigel McClintock and Ian Keatley.
“Whether singer, organist, choir trainer or just a lover of music you will find plenty of interest in this year’s packed programme, which caters for a wide range of musical tastes and styles and includes two new partnerships. In 2011 the Hymn Society of Great Britain and Ireland celebrates its 75th anniversary, so why not come and join in our Festival of Hymns to mark this special occasion, or take part in the Come and Sing Haydn’s Nelson Mass?
“We are also delighted to host an exciting new platform for young organists with the inaugural Northern Ireland International Organ Competition, offering an opportunity to compete for substantial prizes with the bonus of prestigious recital appearances for the winner. The jury includes David Hill and Colm Carey, Belfast City Organist, and will be chaired by leading French organist, Thierry Mechler, Professor of Organ and Improvisation at the Musikhochschule University in Cologne, Germany.
“For organists an absolutely unmissable event is our Opening Organ Recital featuring David Hill and Professor Mechler, who will demonstrate his skill in improvisation. In addition are the Bach at Twilight recital and workshops with David Hill and Daniel Hyde. Choir directors will also be able to attend Open Rehearsals of the Singers and put questions on any aspect of choral training.
“For singers, Paul Farrington, the internationally renowned vocal coach, will offer lessons and workshops on all aspects of vocal technique. Early booking for these is essential.
“Our successful Lunchtime Concert series continues this year. Other concerts include traditional and worship groups and the very special Ave Maria Concert by Candlelight. The Gala Concert this year will again be signed by an interpreter from the RNID and include an Organ Competition winner.
“With so many varied and exciting events we hope you will find something to your taste and look forward to seeing you between 21st – 28th August.”
Charles Wood, the renowned musician and composer, was born at 11 Vicars’ Hill, Armagh in 1866 and received his early musical education as a chorister in the cathedral opposite his home. He later studied at the Royal College of Music and became a Professor there before succeeding Stanford, that other fine Irish musician and composer, as Professor of Music at Cambridge University. When Wood died in 1926 he left behind a legacy of over 250 sacred works plus a large number of hymn tunes. His other compositions include songs, music for Greek plays and chamber music but it is largely for his sacred music that he is remembered today.