RCO announces new National Organ Day for 2020

RCO announces new National Organ Day for 2020


The Royal College of Organists (RCO) has announced plans to hold a National Organ Day on Saturday 18 April 2020, as the centrepiece of a year of outreach to promote the organ as an instrument and improve access to those interested in learning to play.

The RCO is appealing to every building in the UK which houses an organ to open its doors on 18 April, creating a unique opportunity for people to hear and explore the wealth of organs, large and small, to be found throughout the UK.

At a time when fewer people regularly hear an organ being played, the RCO hopes this day of musical celebration will inspire new generations of enthusiasts to consider playing the “King of Instruments”.

The day, which coincides with International Day for Monuments and Sites (also known as World Heritage Day) will include a series of national events organised by the College, including talks, workshops and performances designed to appeal to schools, colleges, music venues, churches and people of all ages. These will take place in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Truro, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast.

Plans are also underway to have the Orgelbüchlein project live streamed as it is performed in Germany.

RCO Chief Executive Sir Andrew Parmley said: “We are really excited about these activities, designed to raise interest in the organ as a wonderful musical instrument which is inspiring to hear and a thrill to play.

“Being an organist offers great opportunities for people who like performing, as there is such a demand for their skills. We want people of all ages and backgrounds to look out for events in their local area and be inspired to have a go.

“Above all we want to create an event on which all organists together can build for the future. In fact, plans are already underway to hold International Organ Day on Saturday 17th April 2021!”

Full details of how to participate in National Organ Day will be released shortly. A pack containing downloadable posters and suggestions for activities will be available, and venues will be able to register their participation so that their details can be included in the promotional activity for the day. We shall also be compiling photographs and reports from around the UK as a record of the inaugural National Organ Day.

Details will be available at www.rco.org.uk as soon as they are available, and College Members will be kept informed through RCO e-News, January’s edition of RCO News, and via our usual pages on Facebook and Twitter.

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