Rare Experiences

This week has been one of rare musical experiences. Exeter Cathedral is home to an organ originally built in 1665 and, although it has been restored several times since then, the wood case that houses most of the pipes is still the same. Two nights this week, I have been allowed to play on the organ at night, alone in the Cathedral. How amazing to be in a massive, magnificent Cathedral alone playing the organ! It is a glorious memory and there is no feeling like it. 

Just below the organ on the north side, is the exquisite, wooden carved Quire, where I have heard our choir sing some stunning music. Accompanying them has been a joy and an inspiration! They have worked hard to create ethereal music, and their sound fills the Cathedral with absolute beauty. 

On Tuesday, our choir sang for the Bishop of Exeter in a service installing four canons in the Cathedral. Although I did not play for this service, I was in the organ loft and assisted the Cathedral's organ scholar. Watching someone who has spent hours, days, and weeks on the Cathedral's instrument was absolutely incredible! 

One other musical highlight from this week actually took place away from the Cathedral at Powderham Castle, where the Earl of Devon lives. It is an elegant castle, filled with gorgeous rooms, furniture, and decor, but Erich and I received a wonderful gift from our tour guide. She got to hear the choir sing in the Castle's music room, but later, she led Erich, Kathleen and I back through the home to the small 1769 tracker organ. Kathleen pumped the bellow, so Erich and I could each play this quaint instrument. What a musical treasure! 

There are still three days left on the tour, and I can't imagine what other musical moments will stay with me forever. 


Lisa Hall