A Musical Journey with Renowned Organist Simon Preston
Simon Preston, an exceptional organist and choral conductor, has left an indelible mark on the music world. Born on August 4, 1938, in Bournemouth, England, his journey began as a chorister at King's College, Cambridge, from where he seamlessly transitioned to the position of sub-organist at Westminster Abbey. His career spanned multiple roles and collaborations with prominent artists and orchestras, making him a celebrated figure in the world of classical music.
Early Life and Education
Preston's early musical beginnings were rooted in his time as a chorister and later an Organ Scholar at King's College, Cambridge. He attended Canford School and King's College, laying the foundation for his future musical endeavors. His debut at the Royal Festival Hall in London in 1962, performing the organ solos in Janáček's Glagolitic Mass, marked the start of his influential positions in the music world.
Notable Appointments and Collaborations
Preston served as Sub-Organist at Westminster Abbey from 1962 to 1967. He returned to the Abbey in 1981 as Organist and Master of the Choristers, a position he held until 1987. Between his stints at Westminster Abbey, Preston was the Organist of the Cathedral and Tutor in Music at Christ Church, Oxford, from 1970 to 1981. His contributions to the music world were extraordinary, and his works with Argo and Decca during his tenure at Christ Church are still remembered fondly.
Preston's collaborations extended to working with renowned conductors like Leopold Stokowski, Pierre Monteux, Leonard Bernstein, and Benjamin Britten. He also frequently collaborated with major orchestras and conductors, particularly for concertante organ works like the Saint-Saëns Organ Symphony and Poulenc’s Concerto for organ, strings, and timpani. One of his most notable collaborations was with The English Concert led by Trevor Pinnock, with whom he made numerous notable recordings.
Musical Contributions and Recordings
Preston's extensive discography includes works by Bach, Handel, and Poulenc. He recorded the complete organ works of Bach and Camille Saint-Saëns' Organ Symphony with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, performed under conductor James Levine. He also recorded the Poulenc Concerto for Organ, Strings and Timpani with the Boston Symphony Orchestra under conductor Seiji Ozawa.
In addition to his recordings, Preston composed music attributed to Antonio Salieri in the film "Amadeus", released in 1984. He directed the music at the Royal Wedding in 1986, specifically the wedding of Sarah Ferguson and Prince Andrew, and conducted significant works like Handel's "Belshazzar" and Walton's "Belshazzar's Feast".
In 1987, Preston embarked on a successful freelance career which saw him performing recitals globally. His illustrious career came to an end in May 2022, when he passed away at the age of 83. This collection celebrates his remarkable collaborations with renowned artists and musical groups. From Handel's Coronation Anthems to Poulenc's Concert champêtre, each piece represents a facet of Preston's musical genius and contribution to the classical music world.
Take a tour of Simon Preston's legacy by immersing yourself in his fascinating works. Experience the enigma that Preston brought to the world of classical music.