King’s Music Scholar Gains Insight from Organ Masterclass with Old Vigornian

This term, Rory W, a talented Upper Fourth Music Scholar and chorister, has captivated the King’s community with his organ playing during whole school assemblies each Tuesday. His impressive skill and dedication recently led to a remarkable opportunity: an organ masterclass with distinguished Old Vigornian Peter Holder, Organist at Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford. Holder, who formerly served as Sub-Organist at Westminster Abbey, famously played at both the Queen’s Funeral and the King’s Coronation.

Reflecting on the experience, Rory described how Peter guided him through Bach’s Trio Sonata in B Minor, beginning with a complete performance before focusing intensively on perfecting just two bars. “After refining those two bars, the improvements resonated throughout the entire piece,” Rory explained, adding that he gained a new appreciation for musicality beyond the notes and for coordinating hands and feet on the instrument.

The lesson also offered insight into the technical nuances of the mechanical-action organ, with Peter showing Rory how to adjust his touch and pressure to achieve the desired tone. Rory noted that this precise control “further enriched his understanding of the piece.”

This was an excellent opportunity for a current King’s pupil to learn from a former Vigornian who is excelling in the Cathedral music profession. We thank Peter for giving up his time to support Rory. His expert guidance has left a lasting impact on Rory, who returns to King’s assemblies with renewed insight and artistry.