Mr Reg. Blundell, a past chairman, contemplated the
formation of an organ association in Swansea, similar to the one that was flourishing
in Llanelli.
On the 7th. July 1964, Mr. Blundell arranged for an organ recital to be held
at Tabernacle Baptist Church, Waun Wen, where he was organist. The recital was
given by Mr Arlandwr John, the Chairman of Llanelli Organ Association. An invitation,
through the medium of the press, was extended to all Swansea organists and others
interested in the organ, and the response was excellent.
Names and addresses of all present were taken, and a second recital was arranged
by Mr. Miner Crocker at the Memorial Baptist Church, where he was organist.
This was given by Mr. Meurig James, organist of Christ Church, Swansea; after
this recital, a meeting was convened in the church hall, and the formation of
the Swansea Organ Association was established. Mr Reg. Blundell was elected
chairman, and Mr. Miner Crocker elected secretary.
The third recital was given by Mr. Keith Gibbs, our former Treasurer, at St.
Teilo's Church, Ceireithin, and at a meeting following this recital, it was
proposed to invite Mrs. Dilys Lloyd to be our Life President. She very kindly
accepted, and was inducted after a recital she gave at St. Mary's Church in
January 1965. Mr John Fussell, who was Municipal Director of Music for Swansea,
was appointed Vice President.
During the first 10 years, the Association flourished and the membership reached
100, with monthly recitals being held every year between October and July, at
various churches and chapels in Swansea and district. These recitals were given
by Association members, and attracted very large audiences. We are most grateful
to all who have played at our recitals, and to the venues that have given us
such a warm welcome.
Another aspect of our work is to provide relief organists for churches and chapels
especially during the holiday season, or for any other reason when resident organists are not available.
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