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The last recital on the Royal Festival Hall Organ, (before its removal for
the general refurbishment of the hall), plus Simon Preston's last UK recital,
was an occasion not to be missed (April 11). So with two friends from Poole, I
met up with Gervais Sawyer (59-64) (very long time no see).
In the programme (and in small print) was a unique offer: giving the "public"
the opportunity to play the organ before its removal, at the 'reasonable' rate
of £250 per hour! I booked 1 1/2hrs and had a very enjoyable time. I found the
console layout very comfortable and easy to play. Parkinson’s - although a
nuisance - is well treated by medication which makes playing still ‘acceptable’.
I have also taken the opportunity to play the organs of Liverpool, Truro, and
Salisbury Cathedrals.
Jonathan (Chris) Thornton (60-66)