This morning I headed to London for an Organ Day at Bloomsbury Baptist Church. I caught the train from Pewsey, which is a lovely country station and just an hour from the big smoke.

Once in London we caught the Tube to Bloomsbury and had a fabulous day!

Simon Williams from the RCO introduced the relatively new CAM scheme along with some players who’d taken the exams. Then we enjoyed a couple of recitals and had a really interesting talk on the history of the Organ. After a break, Dane Gillian Weir hosted a masterclass based on Cesar Franck Choral 2 and 3. I learned so much about shaping of the music, rests, rubato and much more.

Afterwards we had a tea break, I had a quick chat with Daniel Moult and I was delighted to meet Dame Gillian and talk to her about my organ playing. She’s been an inspiration to me ever since I started playing (and I understand she has an enviable organ shoes collection!).

The final highlight was hearing Dr Isabelle Demers play an outstanding recital, all from memory! I particularly enjoyed the Intermezzo and Finale from Symphonies pour orgue op 5 by Barie. I shall certainly be learning that one day!

It has been a fantastic day, with some really interesting people. Thank you so much to The Organ Club, Organists Online and Music in Bloomsbury for organising it. I shall certainly be back!