ORGANZ National Congress 2010, Timaru
ORGANZ National Congress 2010, Timaru
Queen's Birthday Weekend, Friday 4 - Monday 7 June
The Christchurch Organists' Association extended a warm invitation to everyone to join them at Congress 2010 in Timaru, South Canterbury where, as COA President Rosemary Allison said, "Val and John Hargraves have worked tirelessly to put together and outstanding programme" Some of the highlights are listed below.
- A tour of the South Island Organ Company's factory, was a unique opportunity to see all aspects of the organ building process, question the expert staff and see the instruments they are currently working on. Notable among which was the restoration of the Hill organ of St Peter's Church, Willis St, Wellington. Also heard was "The Blitz organ", a remarkable little instrument built from organs that were virtually destroyed in the World War II bombing of London.
- The Congress Recitalist wasl Joseph Nolan, master of Music at St George's Cathedral, WA and former Organist of Her Majesty's Chapel Royal, St James Palace, London. He played the very fine 1912 Hobday organ in the beautiful Sacred Heart Basilica (pictured) at 4pm on Saturday 5 June. An international recitalist and recording artist, Nolan also gave the masterclass and judge the performance awards.
- Congress attendees also saw some of the South Island's most attractive scenery, while touring the Waimate area to see some fascinating instruments and places including the world's largest grand piano, and Arthur A Hobday's last instrument in St Patrick's Basilica.
- Extra time following the formal close of Congress on the Monday afternoon for New Zealand Organ Preservation Trust topics.
ORGANZ Organ Performance Competition
The competition was held in Chalmers Presbyterian church, Timaru on Sunday 6 June. Criteria for entry, specification of the organ and entry form are available to view or download here.