Gifted organist bound for Cambridge (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Gifted organist bound for Cambridge

5:30pm Thursday 20th November 2008

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AN EXCEPTIONALLY talented organist has been awarded a scholarship to study at Cambridge University.

Robert Dixon of Farringford Close, Chiswell Green, has been guaranteed an Organ Scholarship to Jesus College in Cambridge to read Theology in 2010 if he passes his A-Levels with flying colours.

The musical prodigy, who must achieve three A's in Religious Studies, Music, Greek and Latin at Oundle School in Peterborough, said: "I'm really pleased; to make it into Cambridge is fantastic and to do it before anyone else is a really great feeling."

"It will give me great experience for any music career I may want to pursue."

News of his accolade came shortly after he received a professional Diploma Award from the Royal College of Organists - a rare achievement for someone so young and still at school.

Charles Bush, Headmaster of Oundle School, said: “Robert is a very fine example of special talent.  We value our music highly and Robert's achievement shows that the ablest thrive and they can show that they are among the very best in the country.

"This is a very well-deserved accolade for a fine young man.”

The gifted teenager regularly plays for chapel services, accompanies his school choir and occasinally conducts them in performance.

But the 17-year-old discovered his life's calling, aged six, while at Beechwood Park school in Markyate.

His interest in the organ was stimulated by his music teachers who encouraged him to conduct and accompany the school choir.

His involvement enabled him to perform in services in countries all over Europe. Robert said: "It's a great feeling sharing music with others and when a congregation really appreciates you at the end of a service."

Robert plans to spend his gap as an organ scholar at a cathedral.

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