On Saturday, April 9, at 6 p.m. in the Walla Walla University Church, internationally renowned organist and composer, David Briggs, will present a guest artist recital. ICantori of Walla Walla University will also participate in the program, singing Briggs’ “Messe pour Notre Dame.” Briggs composed the piece in 2002 for the choir of Keynsham Parish Church in Bristol, UK, to perform at the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris, France.

Originally from England, Briggs obtained his Fellow of the Royal College of Organists diploma at the age of 17. Briggs has recorded over 40 CDs featuring his work in orchestral transcriptions, choral compositions, and solo organ performances. He has won critical acclaim in publications including Gramophone, Choir & Organ, The American Organist, and BBC Music Magazine. He is currently an artist-in-residence at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. In June, ICantori will be visiting the cathedral and singing the piece with Briggs at the organ again.

Kraig Scott, professor of music, said regarding the recital, “I do not yet know what else David will perform, but I assure you it will be exciting! I hope that he may improvise something as he is one of the best living practitioners of the art of improvisation.”

Briggs' invitation to perform at WWU came partially because Briggs reshared a recording on social media of ICantori singing one of his pieces in the University Church.

Scott said, “It is very exciting to have David Briggs come to our campus. He is an internationally famous organist and composer and we are fortunate to have him here.”

The program will be free and open to the public. Masks are not required. The University Church is located at 212 SW Fourth St., College Place.

Posted March 30, 2022