Wednesday 22nd June 2011 - 13:10 - Anthony Hammond (Cirencester)

Dr. Anthony Hammond studied music at the University of Bristol. Having held Organ Scholarships at Chester Cathedral and then St. Mary Redcliffe, Bristol, in 2002 he was appointed Sub-Organist at Bristol Cathedral. In July 2003, he moved to Cirencester Parish Church, in the heart of the Cotswolds, as Assistant Director of Music, subsequently being promoted to the post of Director of Music and Organist there in 2006. He has studied the organ in England with Roger Fisher and David Briggs, and in Paris with Dr. Naji Hakim. A Fellow of the Royal College of Organists and winner of the Dixon Prize for Improvisation, his passion for French organ music and improvisation led to seven years of doctoral research into the career and technique of legendary French organist and improviser Pierre Cochereau. He was awarded his Ph.D. in July 2010 by the University of Bristol for this work.

He has recorded several CDs, most of which are on the Priory label. One of these includes his own reconstruction of a symphony improvised by Pierre Cochereau at St. Mary’s Cathedral, San Francisco, in 1972. The score of this reconstruction was published by Dr. J. Butz Musikverlag in October 2009. His recordings for Priory, including an album of Elgar organ music, an album his own improvisations, and a volume in their Great European Organs series recorded on the newly rebuilt Willis/Harrison instrument in Cirencester Parish Church, have received widespread critical acclaim He has broadcast for the B.B.C. and has given recitals in churches, cathedrals and concert halls throughout the U.K. and in Europe.

In October 2009 he made his American solo debut at St. Mary’s Cathedral, San Francisco, where he played at the invitation of the American Guild of Organists.

For more information please take a look at Anthony's website www.anthonyhammond.com