IAO Organ Day: A splendid venue, an exciting instrument'

The church of Our Lady of Victories in Kensington, London, was the venue for the IAO Organ Day in March. Several members of the Birmingham Organists’ Association were present and the following report appeared in its newsletter.

'The Roman Catholic church of Our Lady of Victories in Kensington houses a new and impressive (IV/53) organ by the Slovenian firm of Skrabl.

'An audience of over eighty, IAO members and others from many different parts of the country, were welcomed by Ben Bloor, standing in for Artistic Director Tom Bell, who was on paternity leave, but who had devised a fascinating programme focusing on Gregorian chant and organ music influenced by it.

'The event began with a welcome and introduction to the organ by Timothy Macklin, the church’s DoM, with each family of stops heard in turn. The opening recital was given by Ben Bloor, which included well- chosen works by Guilmant, Langlais, Mathias and others to showcase the many different sounds available.

'This was followed by a recital of new works, all commissioned within the last 15 years by Sebastian Thomas and played by him, a rather specialised contribution to the day before the lunch break.

'This was followed by Martin Baker’s detailed exposition of Gregorian chant itself, with vocal assistance from Nick Keay, who was a last-minute replacement for the indisposed original singer.

'The concluding recital, by Greek organist Ourania Gassiou, included works by JS Bach, John Bull, Olivier Latry and Martin Baker, all associated with the day’s main theme.

'A splendid venue, an exciting instrument and first-class performances, so well worth the trip to the capital!'