World’s oldest working organist?

World’s oldest working organist?

Orchestras

norman lebrecht

March 28, 2024

The Royal Liverpool Phil is claiming the title for Dave Nicholls, who is 88 and still pulling out all the stops in concert.

Anyone beat that?

Article here.

Comments

  • Michael says:

    Good for him!!!

  • Pianist and teacher says:

    H. Leslie Adams still has his church position, age 91, as far as I’m aware, at a small church in suburban Cleveland. Wonderful man and musician. I had the distinct pleasure of helping coordinate and accompany a celebratory concert for his birthday.

  • Save the MET says:

    From earlier this year, we have a 95 year old church organist. Reminds me of second hand book dealers advertising they have “the only known copy” of a book. https://www.aol.com/ninty-five-old-musician-plays-233600093.html Superlatives are always there to be topped.

    • Tim says:

      It wasn’t a superlative. It wasn’t even an assertion, given the question mark, but thanks for coming out.

  • pjl says:

    I suspect Francis Jackson was working at a later age; he was said to be able to drink everyone under the table when past 100.

    • norman lebrecht says:

      Neil Mackie writes: Hot on the heels of organist Dave Nicholls is Dr George McPhee MBE who will be 87 this year and who has superbly served Paisley Abbey as Organist and Director of Music for a staggering 61 years. To celebrate the 60th anniversary of his appointment, George was organ soloist in the Saint Saens Organ Symphony with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra on his actual 86th birthday. Under George McPhee’s direction The Paisley Abbey continues to maintain the highest musical standards boasting several eclectic recordings including one with Kenneth McKellar which has sold worldwide. The youthful McPhee has no plans to retire!

  • Tim says:

    He looks to be good for another decade, at least. Best wishes and congratulations to him and all mentioned in the comments.

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