ACT Events for 2008

18 May Hymnfest Hymn singing, organ recitals, and a meet and greet This took place on 18 May at St John's Church, Reid. An encouraging number of people attended, joining in the discovery of some new hymns as well as some old favourites. In addition, we enjoyed a most interesting variety of organ music, ranging from Bach to Kenneth Leighton, played by organists Sheila Thompson, Bill Fraser and Gemma Dashwood. 22 June Dedication of new organ Melba Uniting Church See a photo of the organ in our Gallery... July Composition Competition Compose a setting of Psalm 150 Open to all. (Entries closed July 24) August 17 "An Afternoon of Sacred Music" Let Everything that Hath Breath, Praise the Lord - Psalm 150 All Saints Anglican Church, Ainslie This included performances of entries in our 2008 Composition Competition Our special guest Ann Carr-Boyd, Australian composer, adjudicated the four finalists, and her comments were greatly appreciated. The final winner was Adrian Wintle of Wagga Wagga. Each composition was performed, along with other musical interludes, resulting in a most enjoyable and successful afternoon. September 13 Rural visit to Murrumburrah-Harden A visit to Murrumburrah-Harden and the Ross Memorial Uniting Church (Derby Street, Murrumburrah) with its fine organ. The church, an imposing brick edifice, is visible from the main road, turn left when coming from Canberra. Travel time from Canberra is about 2 hours. The Church has a 2 manual pipe organ built by Dodd of Adelaide in 1917. Program will include: 10.30am Morning Tea in the hall 11.00am Program in the Church    - Talk by local identity about history of the Church,    - Brief organ recital,    - Open console. 12.30 pm (approx). Light Luncheon in the hall. November 23 Demonstration of the Compton Theatre Pipe Organ A little secular indulgence!... At the Albert Hall, at 2.00pm on Sunday 23 November, a demonstration of the Compton Theatre Pipe Organ, with an opportunity for organists to play it. Read Bill Fraser's notes on theatre organs, including an image of the Compton organ HERE. December 12 Christmas Party