Exciting new challenge for young musicians
Musicians of all ages with some keyboard experience, are invited to become involved in Play The Organ Year 2025 (PTOY). Spearheaded by Tik-Tok star Anna Lapwood, it is a UK-wide initiative of the Royal College of Organists and supported by the Ulster Society of Organists and Choirmasters (USOC).
The first event promoted by USOC will take place on Saturday 12 April, from 2.00pm – 4.30pm.
The aim of PTOY is to introduce people of all ages and backgrounds to the organ through concerts and opportunities, and to expand their experience by playing the instrument – an opportunity not to be missed!
In each county in Northern Ireland, a number of interesting organs have been selected for anyone wishing to ‘give it a try’, including the organ in our own Down Cathedral. All that is required is to bring along one or two pieces of familiar music to try on the instrument. There will be experienced organists on hand to guide each player, ensuring that the experience is fun and enjoyable. They will also give guidance on how to follow up if the desire is there to explore the organ further.
Commenting on the initiative, Matthew Owens, President of the Ulster Society Organists and RCO Ambassador for Northern Ireland said: “This is a fabulous initiative. I am hoping that people of all ages – children and adults – are tempted to take this opportunity to try out the organ and see and learn how it all works. The organ is a magnificent instrument which produces a huge variety of sounds, all provided by the vast array of organ pipes. I am delighted that USOC is helping to provide this amazing opportunity to those who wish to explore the exciting world of Mozart called the “King of Instruments”.
Venues that will be embracing this challenge in Northern Ireland include:
Belfast – Fisherwick Presbyterian, Malone Road Belfast and St Peter’s Catholic Cathedral, Divis Street
Co Down – Down Cathedral, English Street
Derry/Londonderry – St Augustine’s Church of Ireland, Palace Street
Co Antrim – St Patrick’s Church of Ireland, Castle Street
Co Armagh – 1st Armagh Presbyterian, Mall West
Co Fermanagh – St Michael’s Catholic Church, Darling Street
Co Tyrone – St Columba’s Church of Ireland, Church Street