Treat for Whanganui organ music lovers

MUSICIAN: Leonard Cave, organist. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Organ music lovers are in for a treat on Saturday, November 5, when local organ maestro Leonard Cave gives a recital entitled Journey Through Europe.
Leonard was born here, a fifth generation Whanganui citizen, and he spent his early years on the family farm up the Whanganui River. When he was old enough he boarded at St George's where he joined the chapel choir and his musical training began.
After graduating B.Mus from Auckland University, he won a national organ playing competition and went to London for three years, studying organ performance under Nicholas Danby at the Guildhall School of Music. During this time he gained considerable performing experience in England and Germany and was assistant organist at St Mary's Church in Hitchin, Herts.
On his return to New Zealand he pursued a career of performing, conducting, adjudicating and teaching. He has been Head of Music in three secondary schools as well as teaching organ and piano privately. He founded the Pukekohe Community Choir which he directed for 13 years.
He was also guest conductor of the Papakura Civic Orchestra. As a performer he has given solo recitals and played with choirs and orchestras nationwide.
Last year Leonard retired to Whanganui, leaving Hamilton where he had been Director of Music at St Paul's Collegiate School for 10 years and, for some time, director of the Waikato University Choir.
Journey Through Europe
Saturday, November 5, 2pm
Christ Church, Wicksteed St.
Adults $20, Friends of the Organ members $15. Children and students free.