DERRY’S famous Guildhall concert organ – which has literally been through the wars during its 100 year history – is to burst back into life in spectacular style as part of the city’s Hallowe’en celebrations.
Derry City and Strabane District Council is hosting an evening of free Gothic organ recitals in the Guildhall’s Main Hall on Friday, October 30th, with acclaimed local organist Stewart Smith in the guise of Count Dracula!
The unique 15 minute recitals – at 7pm, 7.30pm, 8pm and 8.30pm – will be the first opportunity for the public to experience the mighty sounds of the impressive concert organ since its recent refurbishment restored it to its former glory.
The organ – the second to be fitted in the Guildhall since it opened in 1890 – was designed by Sir William Paratt, organist of St George’s Chapel in Windsor. It was badly damaged when the Guildhall was twice bombed in 1972, and rebuilt by Hill, Norman and Beard Ltd of London at a cost of £68,000 in 1978.
Featuring 3,132 pipes the instrument underwent restoration as part of major refurbishment of the Guildhall in 2013 when it became damaged again and required further work to put it back in pristine condition. The newly-restored organ pipes feature intricate 23-carat Italian gold leaf and an acorn design.
Commenting on the recitals, Tara Nicholas, Visitor Services Officer at the Guildhall, said Council was delighted to be unveiling the distinctive musical centrepiece as part of the city’s world renowned annual Hallowe’en celebrations.
“On Friday, 30th October we will be opening our doors of the Main Hall for the public to get the first chance to hear the Guildhall organ since its recent refurbishment. ‘Dracula’ himself will be performing a programme of Gothic works commencing from 7pm and running at 15 minute intervals until 8.30pm.
“This is a unique opportunity to experience the magnificent sounds of the newly refurbished concert organ and we’re anticipating a big influx of visitors for these free recitals which also feature a dramatic Gothic themed backdrop as part of the Hallowe’en festivities.”
The organist, Stewart Smith, will be attired in tune with the occasion, performing a programme of Gothic works which includes J.S. Bach – Toccata & Fugue in D minor – instantly recognisable from the Dracula films – BWV 565, and L Boellmann – Toccata (from Suite Gothique), within a dramatic lighting and visual show.
It will certainly be a gig with a difference for Stewart, who is organist with the Ulster University choir, and admits that donning a Dracula costume, will certainly be a departure from his usual repertoire – but he’s keen to get his teeth into the event!
“We’ve chosen popular pieces which are very much associated with the Gothic theme and people will recognise one in particular from the Dracula films. It will also be quite interesting to see how the special lighting effects and music interact on the night.”
Stewart previously performed on the hallowed Guildhall organ when it was unveiled to a private audience last month and describes it as a “fantastic instrument”.
“It is one of the finest instruments in the city and within Ireland as a whole. It is very unique being one of only two instruments that are within a Town Hall – the other organ is situated in the Ulster Hall – and it has a very good, well blended sounded,” added Stewart, who learned his craft with Billy West, organist at Christ Church and St Columb’s Cathedral, and Desmond Hunter, lecturer in music at Ulster University where he studied for his Music degree.
Why not come along and make a day of it by visiting The Guildhall and Tower Museum this Hallowe’en, with both venues presenting a packed programme of family-orientated events throughout the day.
‘Winifred the Witch’ is taking up residence in the Guildhall’s Whittaker Suite from October 29th-31st, where she will be spinning her mysterious tales for one and all. You can then take a walk up the spooky staircase into the Main Hall and witness amazing illusions from Bruce Airhead who will be performing twice daily from Thursday 29th – Saturday 31st. You will also be treated to some bewitching delights when ‘The Witches’ return to the Main Hall to perform twice daily.
For those seeking a more frightful experience, then walk across to the nearby Tower Museum and take part in the Family Ghost Tours. After the tour you can have some fun with Hallowe’en games and mask making workshops.
For full programme details of the frightfully spooktacular Derry-Strabane ‘Rise of the River Gods’ Hallowe’en Carnival in the City of Bones, visit www.derrystrabane.com/halloween
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