The Christ Church in Greenwich will host a free talk with former Organist and Master of the Choristers at Westminster Abbey James O’Donnell, LVO KCSG, on Sudnay, Janaury 29 at 11:15 at the church’s Parish Hall.
James O’Donnell has enjoyed a most illustrious 23 year career as the Organist and Master of the Choristers at Westminster Abbey and in September led the music at Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in 2011, the service of thanksgiving for the life of Prince Philip in 2021, and many Royal celebrations.
In this Forum he will describe some of the high points of his distinguished and extraordinary career serving the Abbey, under direct jurisdiction of the Monarch.
Mr. O’Donnell was recently made a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO) by King Charles III in the British New Year’s Honors list. Established by Queen Victoria in 1896, the award recognizes distinguished personal service to the British sovereign and their family.
“I am truly delighted and very proud to receive this appointment and thrilled that His Majesty has recognized my work at Westminster Abbey in this way”, O’Donnell said. His last service at Westminster Abbey was this past Christmas day.
This month he moved to Connecticut and officially began his new role as professor in the Practice of Organ at the Yale Institute of Sacred Music (ISM). O’Donnell is also serving as Artist-in-Residence at Christ Church Greenwich and will be playing in several performances throughout the year.
