The organist librarian

Wednesday was a day to remember - my 70th birthday trip replacing the cancelled trip to Ely. Cathedrals express from King's Cross in Pullman first class dining to Chesterfield pulled by a diesel. 4 coachloads 2 and a half hours at Chatsworth. Interesting fashions but in some cases the bling hardly went with the glorious paintings - Rembrandt, Watteau, Reynolds! Lovely garden and glorious day. Returned pulled by steam engine Duchess of Sutherland. Back to King's Cross at 11.45 and cab to Acton after a great day! Nice to see David Gammie.

Took Liz to West Norwood in order to get to college. Train to Dalston Junction then bus to Stamford Hill. Magnificent St Ignatius church and I was early so saw Fr Swavek who was MC for Bishop John. 7 deacons ordained for Jesuits from different provinces -Peru. Germany, Sri Lanka, India, Vietnam. Bishop John spoke really well. David Gammie played. Walked to reception in school hall and met Peter Redemptorist and Sr Eileen - had  a good chat. Bus and tubes to Edgware Road and arrived early. South London circle centenary Mass - the booklet was rubbish, lots of mistakes despite my emails. Rehearsed with singer Katie and string quartet and all went OK although she did not sing the Sanctus at the service! Archbishop Peter Smith and Fr Philip very friendly. Liz served and we then walked to the Landmark hotel expecting to just go to the reception, Turned out we were guests at the lavish banquet and we sat with Harry Mellor and Peter Higgs. Finished at 11.30 taxis and train quite quickly h...

On buses and tram to Wimbledon for a free organ recital given by David Gammie and others to celebrate the centenary of the Walker organ in Sacred Heart church. Bach Passacaglia and Ad Wammes Miroirs, Widor. Nice to have the screen. Soler duet and Robert Ampt's Variations on Waltzing Matilda for 4 feet. Nice cake like an organ and wine in the hall. I told David Gammie I had met Robert Ampt and Amy but he didn't seem very interested. Andrew Cessana was there.