There has been increased interest in the musical output of Buxtehude since the 1970s, as studies and performances of early music became more fashionable. How lucky we are that the music of a man who so greatly inspired and influenced J.S. Bach is now seeing the light of day more regularly within the concert circuit (rather than simply through bland academic research or niche music groups).

Interestingly, when Buxtehude retired from his post as Organ Master at St. Mary’s Church in Lübeck, there was a contractual requirement that his successor marry his daughter. Both Bach and Handel considered the role but turned it down due to this requirement. However strange this may seem to us today, it was not an uncommon practice, as it allowed the retiring musician to retain the position and their accommodation within the family. Ultimately, the role (and the hand of Fräulein Buxtehude) went to Johann Christian Schieferdecker.

Following a triumphant performance of the Cantatas, the boys had a little time to recuperate before the Easter weekend. There was a visit to Jump Inc. in Bicester, followed by bowling, and then it was on to the river for a spot of boating. Joining us for her first Holy Week was Matron Tina. Tina joined the Choristers as they took to the water in a small flotilla of chaos. Things went swimmingly for the most part, save for the untimely directional instructions of William L, who only informed Matron of a collision mere seconds before impact. Still, there was a certain majesty to her falling backwards into the rowing boat, which somehow gained the attention of the Dean and Chapter - I can only suspect there was a leak!

The boys were back in magnificent voice for Easter Sunday, delivering a splendid Mozart Mass at Eucharist and a rather festive Stanford in A at Evensong. The boys and all of us here in the boarding house wish to thank Mr. Holder and Mr. Moore for their very patient direction over the course of Holy Week and congratulate all involved in elevating the many services with such wonderful music.