Sounds of the Summer: A Perfect Day

Several days have passed since Professor Ian Tracey’s ‘Sounds of the Summer’ recital in Mixbury; as I put pen to paper I am reminded of a comment written by the critic Longinus, “Like the setting sun, the grandeur remains.”

The showroom was packed with church organists anticipating a rare event, and we were not disappointed. Ian Tracey is a gifted communicator and we were drawn into the world of one of the greatest virtuoso organists by musical performances second to none as well as a flow of superbly entertaining anecdotes.
On all four sides we were surrounded by a kaleidoscope collection of church organs and Ian moved from one to another to showcase each instruments’ individual characteristics. It was quite fascinating.

There were a number of young people in the audience and they were given a special warm welcome by Managing Director Dr Keith Harrington. Indeed, they are the future organists who will be playing and caring for the ‘King of Instruments’ in the Cathedrals, Churches and Concert Halls and, at times, honing their playing technique, at home on the wonderful digital practice instruments available today.

A perfect summer’s day in the pleasant setting of Mixbury, memorable musical performances by a living legend, friendly faces from Liverpool Cathedral’s Organ Appeal stall, helpful and cheerful Church Organ World staff and, a really excellent buffet. I think all members of the audience there present on 5th May 2018 will be looking forward to the next time.