The Freemasons are organising their first virtual Organ Concert, to take place on 9 December at 7pm. They’ll be showing off the magnificent Willis Pipe Organ, and will be streamed from the majestic Grand Temple in Freemasons’ Hall – an Art Deco masterpiece built in 1933.
The virtual audience will be able to watch Christopher Stokes, the present Senior Organist at the Freemasons, and organist and Master of the Choristers at Manchester Cathedral. He previously held posts as organist and Master of Music at St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square, and director of music at St Margaret’s, Westminster Abbey.
Mr Stokes is a renowned soloist, but has also appeared with numerous orchestras, including the Hallé Orchestra, the Manchester Camerata, the Northern Chamber Orchestra and the Orchestra of the Golden Age.
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Dr David Staples, chief executive of the United Grand Lodge of England, commented: “The country has faced two national lockdowns in the past year, which has left many feeling isolated and lonely, at UGLE we wanted to spread some early Christmas cheer with a virtual concert to bring music and joy into people’s homes.
“During the virtual presentation, the audience will have the opportunity to appreciate some of the stunning architecture of our Headquarters here in London at the same time.”
Set up the virtual concert while you’re tucking into dinner this coming week and let the rumbling sounds of this enormous organ ripple through the house – just make sure the bass is turned right up!
