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18
Oct 2023
Retiring organist in Ripon Cathedral recital surprise
An organist retiring after more than 70 years of playing was given a surprise opportunity to perform a farewell recital at Ripon Cathedral yesterday.
David Wilberforce has been the organist at West Park United Reformed Church on West Park, and before that at Trinity Methodist Church.
Now, he and his wife Ann, who is also a key member at West Park, will be moving to Great Missenden in Buckinghamshire, so members at West Park sprang a surprise by arranging for him to play the organ in Ripon Cathedral for a private gathering of church friends.
David and Ann Wilberforce
Despite only having 48 hours' notice, David prepared a mini-recital of some of his favourite pieces and hymn tunes, performing them with his renowned dexterity and skill.
David told the Stray Ferret:
Originally from County Durham, David began playing the organ at the age of 11. He taught history in various schools, including Silcoates in Wakefield and Woodhouse Grove near Bradford, and played the organ wherever he lived. He retired from teaching in 1999, but continued his passion for music through the church. Well known in Harrogate choral music circles, he arranged the music for the annual Gilbert & Sullivan Festival service. He said:
As a tribute to David, at the joint service between West Park and St Paul’s churches this Sunday, Adrian Selway, organist and choirmaster at St Paul's, will play the famous Widor’s Toccata as a closing voluntary.
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