As he completes a very successful year as Organ Scholar, Logan Williamson will perform the last Lunchtime Concert of the season this Friday. Here, he shares some of his highlights and learning curves during his time at the cathedral.
Can you share some of your milestones as Organ Scholar?
“It has been wonderful working with the choir this year and there have been many memorable moments, some of my favourites include the Advent Procession, Festival of Lessons and Carols and the trip to Bradwell last Sunday where we sang at the chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall, which St Cedd founded over 1000 years ago.”
How have you found working with the unique organs at Chelmsford?
“I have learnt a lot over the past year, and much of that is due to being thrown in at the deep end and accompanying services multiple times a week from the start of September. While the organs and their configuration are unique, I have loved getting to know each of them over the past few months and hope to highlight some of the great sounds on offer in my recital.”
Are you looking forward to your lunchtime concert?
“This lunchtime concert should be a lovely way to demonstrate the progress I have made and it is also my first solo organ recital. As one of my last events here in Chelmsford, I am certainly looking forward to presenting my programme on Friday. Lots of my family shall be attending, as well as some friends and past teachers. I feel very fortunate to have so many people coming to support me, it will be lovely for everyone to get together and catch up.”
Can you give us an insight into the repertoire you have planned?
“The programme is as follows: Prelude in E Minor ‘The Great’ – Nicolaus Bruhns (1665-1697); Psalm Prelude from Set 1, No. 1; Op. 32 – Herbert Howells (1892-1983); Prelude and Fugue in C Major BWV 547 – Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750); Choral for Organ No. 3 in A Minor FWV 40 (Trois Chorals) – César Franck (1822-1890).”
What comes next for you?
“The choir term finishes this Sunday, after which I shall enjoy the summer at home in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk with my parents. In September, I begin my studies at The Royal Holloway, University of London, where I will not only be reading music, but I'll also continue to play the organ in my position as Junior Organ Scholar for the Choir of Royal Holloway.”
Logan's lunchtime concert will take place on Friday 11 July at 12pm, with tea and coffee served from 11.30am.