This year’s OrganFest in Cardiff is offering a perfect opportunity to introduce youngsters to the organ. David Pipe on the organ with John Biddle as narrator, along with Jeremy Sampson, curator of the WOOFYT, present all sorts of wizardry and magic in a concert for the whole family on the morning of Saturday, 7th September.

Oundle for Organists, in partnership with the RCO, have published a new series of eight films as a guide for potential organ scholars. Presented by Oundle’s Director, Ann Elise Smoot, they explain how to prepare for organ scholar trials, with practical advice on skills such as improvisation, registration, and score reading from inspiring tutors. All organists wanting to improve their skills will find the films, and the accompanying reading list, helpful.

The 2018 edition of the College’s annual research publication, The Journal of the Royal College of Organists, can be downloaded here as a complete edition.

A biographical sketch of the Dutch composer Kendrik Andriessen, with a discussion of his organ works.

This is the fifth video in Daniel Moult’s series on playing styles, and discusses the performance of the organ music of French Romanticism, from Franck to Widor.

Ann Elise Smoot introduces a series of eight films showing what to consider and what to prepare when applying for an organ scholarship, whether at a university, a cathedral, or parish church. A comprehensive reading list is included with the series.

Ann Elise Smoot discusses the benefits of an organ scholarship with former organ scholars, and asks current Directors of Music what is expected of organ scholars in terms of duties and responsibilities.

Mark Williams and Ann Elise Smoot suggest ways to improve your keyboard skills in preparation for applying for an organ scholarship.  A reading list with further resources is included.

Richard Pinel and Ann Elise Smoot explain how to create and manage registration schemes on the organ, whether by hand or using divisional pistons, with a focus on choral accompaniment.