As well as John Rutter's deserved knighthood acknowledged in another thread, four other organists have made the honours list: Donald Campbell: Professor, Musical Acoustics, Edinburgh University. For services to the Carlops Church and to the community in Tweeddale and Edinburgh Margaret Donaldson: Organist, Wardie Parish Church, Edinburgh. For services to the community in Edinburgh Edna Edmond: Voluntary Organist. For services to Skene Parish Church, Aberdeenshire Timothy Smith: Director of Music, St Mary's Church, Harrow on the Hill, London Borough of Harrow. For services to Music and to Education   Congratulations to them al.

Would appear that our cousins across the channel have their own particular political agenda with regard to this appointment. Wonder if they will react in their usual style by taking to the streets of Paris? I would suggest  ( IMHO only, that is ) that they should get a grip of themselves and count their blessings in their good fortune in the fact that the organ survived the fire and has had the funds available for its repair/ restoration. As you state, the previous incumbents are somewhat geriatric now and have relinquished their posts anyway even though their decisions may have been, shall we say, " influenced " ?       This is an ideal opportunity for the authorities concerned to inject some new life blood ; what do these petitioners want ?  Winch these old timers up to the console?    Have them finally pegging out over the claviers perhaps? Maybe when the new incumbents come to give their opening recitals they may well be accompanied by balloons and party blowers; let`s wait and see! Would not be surprised if we should hear if the Academie has had some input  One thing is for sure however - at least Our  Cousins are prepared to show a bit more backbone with their concern and support than we would have here in Good `0l Blighty; should the occasion show itself.  

Good to hear this recording. Wonder at the time lag in getting it aired!   Be brilliant to hear the whole recital. Many thanks to you for submitting it. I suppose I would be correct in assuming that the Grand  Old  Queen is still slumbering and dropping to bits in situ?

Very happy to see JRs knighthood announced today. Arguably long overdue there can be no doubt of his long lasting impact on choral music both here and abroad.