THE Diocese of Winchester has announced that the final report into the future of music at the cathedral has been pushed back to next year.
As previously reported, the Bishop of Winchester Philip Mounstephen ordered an independent review in June following the resignation of a leading member of the Winchester Cathedral Chapter.
It has now been revealed that the review, led by independent ecclesiastical lawyer Patti Russell, is being more thorough than previously thought, with the review being extended into 2025.
A post on the Winchester Cathedral website has revealed that the report will be written in November and December, with the Bishop's recommendations expected to come next year.
The post said: “The Review Team has interviewed over 45 people including three external musical experts. The majority of these interviews have been conducted face-to-face during August and September, with follow-up conversations via Zoom where necessary. In addition to the interviews, the Review Team has considered over 140 written submissions which have been followed up as appropriate.
“While it was initially felt that a three-month deadline for the completion of the report was possible, the level of engagement from interested parties and the need for rigour has meant that the team is only now concluding follow-up interviews, with an expectation of writing their report during November and December.
“In accordance with the draft Church Commissioners’ Guidance, the report will be confidential to the Bishop. Once he has received it, it will be necessary for him to take some time to digest its contents before producing conclusions and recommendations for Chapter. The Bishop will also make a summary of his conclusions and recommendations public.
“Bishop Philip says: ‘While this review has taken a little longer than expected, in accordance with my direction, Patti and Jane have conducted this review with thoroughness and sensitivity, which has necessarily taken time. I look forward to receiving their report, and have confidence that their recommendations will enable Winchester Cathedral to move forward into a more settled future.’
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“Winchester Cathedral Chapter welcomes Bishop Mounstephen’s Review. We are committed to fully engaging in the process, and implementing any recommendations made by Bishop Philip.”
As previously reported, the review was ordered following the resignation of Mark Byford, a senior non-executive member of Winchester Cathedral Chapter.
Former director of music at Winchester Cathedral Dr Andrew Lumsden stepped down at the end of July. Former choristers also expressed their fears over the departures of organist Claudia Grinnell and, in 2021, George Castle.
Winchester Cathedral has dedicated a section of its website to provide updates on the proceedings – more information can be found there.
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