On the evening of Monday the10th of November, I along with more than sixty others enjoyed a musical treat with a difference. It is quite unusual to be able to hear an organ being played to show it’s full capability, but Alistair Auld, our principle organist at St. Christopher’s Cathedral did just that. Not only did Alistair enthral us with his mastery of the instrument, but he also showed those of us who initially had doubts when it was purchased three years ago, that the new organ is a truly wonderful instrument. As Alistair remarked in his entertaining introductions to the various items, the wonders of modern technology in the development of electronic organs such as ours could not be envisaged 20 years ago. It actually did sound like a real cathedral organ. 

The programme included a Prelude and two Fugues by the well-known master of the organ, J.S. Bach. In these Alistair demonstrated his superb mastery of the instrument, particularly the intricate pedal-work involved. The various tonal qualities of the instrument were highlighted in works by the French composers Louis Vierne, Faure and Henri Mulet. We enjoyed the contrasts of the British composers John Stanley, Frank Bridge and John Rutter. In all these pieces and others Alistair demonstrated his thorough knowledge of the instrument in the many stop combinations and settings involved. Being on the day sandwiched between our Remembrance Day services and Remembrance Day itself when we have a mid-morning service at the Cemetery, Alistair chose to include an organ transposition of Elgar’s Nimrod which was thoroughly appreciated by all present.   

The recital was followed by refreshments in the Coffee Room provided by various members of the congregations. Our Dean, the Very Rev. Alan Hayday conveyed our hearty thanks to Alistair for giving of his time and effort to entertain us with such an enjoyable recital, all the proceeds from which go to Cathedral funds.  

Alistair is truly a master of the instrument, and it is a blessing for us to have him here in Bahrain where he is Head of Music at St. Christopher’s School. Finally a word of thanks should also go to his son Toby who acted as ‘page-turner’ and ‘assistant’ when required. 

We look forward to further recitals and concerts of this type in the future.

                                                              
Rod Taylor