Kent County Organists’ Association
The Kent County Organists’ Association inaugural Organ Festival was held on Saturday, 20th May at All Saints’, Church, Maidstone. The purpose of the Festival was to encourage players under the age of 21 and to raise awareness of the Association and its’ activities.
There were five entries in two grades:
Intermediate: Matthew Jorysz, 13 (Brentwood). Jeremy Lloyd, 14 (Oxsted) and Kris Thomsett, 14 ( Teynham)
Advanced: Jonathan Hope, 17 (Ripley) and Geoffrey Tuson, 19 (Frimley)
Dr. David Flood, Organist and Master of the Choristers, Canterbury Cathedral, in his adjudication had to make difficult choices since the standard of playing was so high. He awarded the Intermediate Prize of £100 to Matthew Jorysz, and the Advanced Prize of £150 plus the opportunity of giving a recital in Canterbury Cathedral to Geoffrey Tuson.
After lunch the performers gave a recital which was enjoyed by the very supportive audience of families, friends and KCOA members. The day ended with music by Schumann and Mozart superbly played by the Smith Family, Charlotte (violin), Edmund (viola), Victoria (cello) and Eleanor (piano).
A second festival is planned for next year, when it is hoped that more young organists will come forward, especially in the Elementary grade where this year there were no entries.
Left to right - Geoffrey Tuson, Matthew Jorysz, Dr. David Flood,
Jeremy Lloyd, Kris Thomsett and Jonathan Hope
Shown above are: l to r Matthew Jorysz, Jeremy Lloyd, Kris Thomsett, Jonathan Hope, Geoffrey Tuson, with David Flood and Barbara Childs, President of the KCOA.