We are sure you agree that, for many years, Winchester Cathedral’s musicians have not only enhanced the joy of worship, but also enriched beyond measure the musical life of Winchester and the surrounding area. The cathedral’s world-class music directors, organists, lay clerks and former choristers have used their extraordinary talents to inspire and nurture our many local high-quality amateur choirs, helping us as expert choral and orchestral conductors, piano and organ accompanists, and soloists.   

Winchester’s rich choral culture draws singers and audiences to participate in music-making of the highest quality in the city’s churches.  Our music-making enhances the community’s spirit, creating a sense of belonging, and acts as a magnet for thousands of visitors, contributing to Winchester’s vibrancy and commercial life. 

The cathedral’s musicians have for decades been both the pinnacle and guiding light of musical achievement in Winchester.  We are deeply concerned by the imminent departure, for unexplained reasons, of Dr Andrew Lumsden, one of England’s top conductors and organists, as well as the loss of Lay Clerks and organists, and that the cathedral’s musical reputation and influence are being undermined by reports that could inflict lasting damage.

We have heard the Dean’s assurances about fostering and investing in the cathedral’s musicians.  I hope you agree that words are not enough.  Winchester’s musical community needs the cathedral to rebuild its complement of comparable highly respected and multi-talented musicians, who can continue to give leadership and assistance to the wider musical community and maintain Winchester Cathedral’s national musical reputation.

Alison Spottiswoode, Southern Voices Chair, Waynflete Singers member

Daniel Benton, Waynflete Singers Chair, Winchester Cathedral Chamber Choir member

Deborah Mitchell, Southampton Philharmonic Choir, Secretary, formerly Jane Austen Singers

Derek Beck, Hampshire Choral Festival Chair, St Cross Director of Music

Gareth Humphreys, Kingsgate Voices Treasurer

Howard Nattrass, Waynflete Singers former Chair

John Lunt, Southern Voices former Chair, Waynflete Singers member

Julian Macey, Ashton Singers founder

Richard Anning, Southern Voices former Chair

Steve Dean, Winchester Consort Founder, Winchester Cathedral Chamber Choir member

 

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