Bradford Cathedral is preparing to bid farewell to its esteemed Director of Music, Alexander Berry, as he concludes his tenure at the end of August. In commemoration of his remarkable contribution, a series of services and events will be held on Sunday, 9th July, at the cathedral.
The day’s proceedings will commence at 3:30pm with a service of Choral Evensong, marking the final event of the choir year. Following the service, a Prosecco reception will be held at 4:15pm, providing an opportunity for attendees to share their well-wishes with Alexander Berry.
At 4:45pm, an organ recital will be performed by Berry, signifying the beginning of a temporary closure of the organ until October. This period of closure is necessary to facilitate essential remedial works. Updates on the progress of the restoration can be found on Bradford Cathedral’s social media platforms and website.
Subsequently, a presentation expressing gratitude to Alex Berry will take place, honouring his dedicated service to Bradford Cathedral. After six-and-a-half years as Organist and Director of Music, Berry will bid his farewell on the 31st of August, as he assumes the role of Director of Music at Great St Mary’s, The University Church, Cambridge.
Reflecting on his tenure, Alexander Berry expressed his gratitude, stating, “It has been an honour to serve as Director of Music at Bradford Cathedral. When I was appointed at the age of 27, I was the youngest cathedral organist in the UK. It has been the most extraordinary formative experience, and I am so grateful to the clergy, choir, and congregation for their generosity during my time here. I shall miss you all greatly.”
Additionally, on the 9th of July, a brief awards ceremony will be held to celebrate the achievements of the choir members, marking the final day of the choir year.
The Very Revd Andy Bowerman, Dean of Bradford, acknowledged Berry’s significant contributions, remarking, “Alex has led the music team through a period of significant change and growth over the past 7 years. His passion for the English choral tradition and his desire for everyone to have the chance to experience this means that he leaves a thriving intercultural choir with girls and boys from across the city of Bradford. He will be a tremendous gift to the people of St Mary the Great and Cambridge. While we will miss him, we wish him God’s speed and blessing as he goes.”
Those interested in attending the afternoon’s events can sign up at bradfordcathedral.churchsuite.com/events/mxbs89gu or through the Bradford Cathedral website. The deadline for sign-ups is Wednesday, 5th July. For further details about Alex’s recital and his time in Bradford, an interview titled ‘Notes from an Organist’ can be accessed at bradfordcathedral.org.uk/2023/07/04/notes-from-an-organist-alex-berry-bradford/.
