Remember His Name...

Talking with our Organ Scholar the other evening, he made the comment that not much music has been featured on this blog. I made the not unreasonable reply that a blog is primarily visual - but he does have a point. Music is a huge part of the life of Westminster Cathedral, and a tradition we proudly maintain.

Glad to rectify this ommission, above is a picture of Simon Lloyd - the man himself. Simon comes from Bristol, and has completed his music degree at Manchester. As Organ Scholar, Simon lives at Clergy House (for many, a daunting prospect), but he has rapidly taken to life here, and is a great member of our community.

The Organ Scholarship is offered each year by the Cathedral to a young Catholic musician, and is aimed at giving the Scholar invaluable practical experience in the musical life of the Cathedral. For those who wish to pursue a career in Church music, the broader life of the Cathedral and its atmosphere provide a unique and useful background for future appointments.

The Organ Scholar trains the probationer choristers, helps with music adminstration, plays the organ for Mass and other services, and gives occasional recitals. From time to time the Scholar will conduct all, or part of, the Choir - a remarkable challenge to one beginning a musical career. The Scholarship usually lasts a year, and is one way in which the Cathedral supports practically the Catholic liturgical and musical life of this country. Simon is proving particularly successful this year, and intends to pursue a career in music. You saw his name first here: remember it ...