Organist Matthew Atherton and the Strings Attached Ensemble absolutely gave their all in a concert that caused the hairs to stand on the back of the neck, and tears were close at the beauty of the performance.

But first things first, as my mother would say – rather too often and frequently with ‘that look’ : the concert was to celebrate the recent refubishment of St Mary’s organ by Peter Wood & Son Ltd, Organ Builders, Harrogate. The great organ pipework was cleaned for the first time since 1964. One can only image the relief of said organ! And trust me, it certainly sounded in fine fettle, but of course it did have Matthew Atherton, the superb and renowned organist playing. Not only that, he was in the company of the Strings Attached Ensemble, an ensemble with around twenty local players. Julie Bates tells me: ‘Pauline Hagen and I created the Ensemble about nine years ago, and as Trevor Wilson is incredbly talented, and had taught us music at school, we felt he would be the perfect person to be our Musical Director. To our relief he agreed, and indeed he has been wonderful and the ensemble has gone from strength to strength.‘

Library image of the recent Strings Attached Ensemble at The Gathering in the Garden, Thirsk Hall in aid of Herriot Hospice Homecare. The evening raised over £5000 for the Hospice.

Matthew Atherton was Director of Music at Aysgarth School but a couple of years ago he took a mid-life break, to commit to the freedom to develop his extraordinary talents as an organist, pianist and composer. We knew we wouldn’t have him forever in Thirsk, but … oh … the time has come and in September he will be taking up a Head of Music post near Clitheroe in Lancashire. So with this in mind, the combined concert with Matthew and the Ensemble was particularly special..

Now, on to the memorable moments of the concert, which stormed off with the dramatic Spitfire Prelude by William Walton arr. by Matthew. This was enjoyed by everyone, and as Christine Humphries said, ‘How could it be bettered?’ Trust me, it could…

Percy Grainger’s English Country Gardens, arranged by Trevor was tip top, to be followed by Gabriel’s Oboe, always one to wring the withers, though this time no oboe but organ by Matthew and cello – beautifully played by Victoria Storer. The Ensemble swished into the Concerto in G major for two mandolins (Vivaldi) with soloists, Simon Rheinberg and Richard Nevile interpreting it to perfection. As you can see the programme was eclectic, and let’s face it, there is something special about this glorious music being performed in the perfection of St Mary’s of Thirsk.

Matthew interwove the music with snippets of history he had researched in Northallerton Archive Office, and which he delivered, of course, with his usual humour (heavens – and I know I go on – but how we will miss him). By the way, see Julie Bates, the blonde bombshell and leader of the Ensemble, at the ready with her violin.

On and on the concert went, going from March from Scipio by Handel, to Suite Gothique by Boellmann. After the interval it was straight into Fawlty Towers by Dennis Wilson (don’t mention the War), the Teddy Bears Picnic by Bratton, then the Dance Suite by Rawsthorne to name just some, until climaxing with The Dambusters March by Eric Coates (I told you it was eclectic) Ah, feel those hairs on the back of the neck.

Finally the audience was asked to stand to sing Jerusalem, which, Matthew said, would suggest a standing ovation for the musicians. Indeed, but that would have happened anyway, so very there. The roof of St Mary’s stayed on, but surely only just. Everyone was so very very proud of Thirsk’s brilliant musicians. But before I end, I simply have to say, and let’s forget the waistlines: the cakes were delicious and much appreciated by the enthusiastic audience. Such a lovely lovely occasion.

Ah, just a thought: if anyone is interested in joining the Ensemble, do contact Julie through their website. Then everyone can come along and give you a standing ovation. By the Way, Matthew Atherton is giving a Piano and Organ Concert at St Mary’s on 2nd August at 7.pm in support of the work of Holy Rood House, Sowerby. Suggested donation of £10, including refreshments.