Press Releases
ARMAGH ORGANIST TO RETIRE AFTER 34 YEARS
The Organist and Master of the Choristers at Armagh Church of Ireland Cathedral, Mr Martin White Mus.B., FRCO., has decided to retire after 34 years of service.
Martin White came to Armagh as a young man in 1968, having been formerly organist of Ruislip Priory Church Middlesex (1960-63) and of Harrow Parish Church (1963-68), Born in Southall, Middlesex, Martin was educated at Mercers School, Holborn and the Royal Academy of Music. He took his Music Teacher’s Certificate at the University of London Institute of Education, receiving his FRCO diploma in 1965 and that of CHM (with John Brook Prize for Choir-Training) in 1967. After coming to Ireland he took the degree of Mus.B from Trinity College, Dublin.
During his time in Armagh, he became deeply involved in the musical life of the city and local community. He taught in Armagh Technical College and the former Armagh Girl’s High School as well as being organiser of the Craigavon Music Centre. A gifted instrumentalist and excellent improviser on the organ, he often acted as accompanist for concerts in the Cathedral. His practical skills ensured many repairs and alterations to the Walker organ in the Cathedral over the years and credit must be given to his efforts and advice in bringing about the major rebuild undertaken in 1996 which now renders the organ one of the finest in the country.
Martin White has acted as tutor for the Gregg Organ Scholarship Scheme in Armagh Diocese during which time many young organists have been helped and encouraged to promote music in the parishes in the Diocese. His musical compositions include two settings for the Holy Communion Service one entitled ‘a Celtic Eucharist’ and the other ‘a Model Eucharist’.
Mr White has served as Organist of St Patrick’s Cathedral under four successive Archbishops and three Deans.
Further information from:
THE CHURCH OF IRELAND PRESS OFFICE
Church of Ireland House
61 - 67 Donegall Street
Belfast BT1 2QH
Tel: (028) 9023 2909
Fax: (028) 9032 3554
Email:The Press Office