AFTER 20 years away the Alton Organ Society welcomed Charles Harrison back to the Church of St Lawrence for a most polished concert on April 5.

The organist and master of choristers at Chichester Cathedral played a programme spanning more than 300 years of organ music ranging from Louis-Nicholas Clérambault (1676-1749) to Maurice Duruflé (1902-86).

Last time Charles visited Alton he was working in Northern Ireland for more than three years. Once again, we were privileged to witness his manual and pedal skills courtesy of the large screen which projected the two images side by side. Some remarked that it looked like two people playing the organ.

It was a most satisfying programme ending with a great favourite, Duruflé’s Prélude & Fugue sur le nom d’Alain – a tribute to the late Jehan Alain.

The final concert in the current season will be given by concert organist Francesca Massey on Tuesday at 8pm. Her programme can be viewed at www.altonorgansociety.co.uk

There are Thursday summer lunchtime organ concerts from 1.10pm to 1.50pm on June 23, July 21, August 18 and September 15. These highlight local talent and are very popular indeed. Admission is free, with a retiring collection to cover expenses and boost the St Lawrence Church Organ Restoration Fund. Doors open at 12.30pm and refreshments are available.

Our 56th season begins on Tuesday, October 4 with Colin Walsh from Lincoln Cathedral.

Sue Hawkins