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All the world watched, holding its collective breath as the fire billowed, then raged through Notre Dame. The spire toppled and our hands went to our mouths. Hope for any of the treasures in the vast 850-yr-old building, seemed pointless. Surely nothing could be saved. I couldn't bear to watch, feeling utterly sick at heart. We had been lucky enough to visit several times, and we were treated to a particularly memorable experience watching Olivier Latry back in 1992 as he showed what a phenomenal improviser and musician he is. Like millions of others, we felt we knew Notre Dame as a friend.
But it seems the design of the cathedral, the placement of the tribune and many other factors contributed to the survival of the organ at least; and bravery and determination of humans ensured other priceless treasures were rescued. Much is being written about the fire, the history, and hope for the future, for which we wish them every ounce of courage and determination as they rebuild. Check the links at the bottom of the newsletter for a little more information.
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Response from Olivier Latry
Many of us around the world and here in New Zealand have come to appreciate the artistry of Olivier Latry as a frequent performer here. He wrote these moving words in reply to the thousands of anxious well-wishers, which I am sure you will find reassuring.
"In these tragic moments for the Cathedral, you have been extremely numerous to send kind words of support, all more moving than the others, either by e-mail, SMS, FaceBook, Instagram or on the phone.
I will never thank you enough for that. I would have liked to respond personally to each of you, but given the urgency of the situation, it is unfortunately not possible for me, at least for the moment. I hope you’ll understand.
Notre-Dame, who had resisted revolutions and wars, burned in a few moments. 855 years destroyed in four hours ... Like you, I feel terribly sad, with contained rage, total sorrow. The images that we have seen are horrible. How not to think that we are in a bad dream? Reality comes back to us, unfortunately.
Despite all the damage in the Cathedral, the organ miraculously escaped the flames, as well as the water supposed to extinguish them. It is very dusty, but will continue to enjoy us as soon as the building will be restored. When? No one knows. John 2 says, 'destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up.' It will surely take more time in Notre-Dame, but I still live with great confidence and hope.
With warmest regards, Olivier Latry
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20% off our latest CD!
From now until midnight, Monday April 22nd, "Resounding Aftershocks" is available from our website at Pipeline Press with 20% off the normal price. Better for the figure than a chocolate egg, anytime. More's the pity.
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Or download your music a track at a time
If you can't afford a complete CD, or simply are too impatient to wait for it to arrive by mail, you can now download MP3 files of "Resounding Aftershocks". They come complete with the pdf version of the booklet so you don't even have to miss out on that. Buy what tracks you want, when you want. Pay in one of 5 different currencies (GBP, NZD, AUD, USD, EURO) with no confusing conversions - it all pops up as you add your tracks to the cart. Give it a go now.
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ANZAC Day Variety show
ANZAC Day, April 25th, commemorates all Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. Christchurch’s iconic Woolston Brass brings home the popular ANZAC Variety Concert to the Christchurch Town Hall for the first time since 2010 - and yes, it will include the organ! Woolston Brass with Music Director Tyme Marsters combined with the New Zealand Army Band, Christchurch City Choir, organist Martin Setchell, The Starlets, and Swingtown Rebels will commemorate the ANZAC spirit in a special musical celebration at 2pm on Thursday 25th April.
Featuring a variety of favourites years gone by, and old wartime sing-a-longs, this concert salutes the heritage of ANZAC Day with uplifting patriotism and nostalgia. A concert the whole family of any age will enjoy. Buy your tickets here
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Back in print
At last, a new batch of the ever-popular "Organ-isms: Anecdotes from the World of the King of Instruments", updated and reprinted is once again available from our online store. If you already have a copy, how about making it a little gift for a friend? They also make great bedside books for guests (as long as their chuckles don't keep you awake. Remember these are yarns by more than 100 organists world-wide, who have hair-raising tales to tell...) Get it now!
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After all that has happened these past few weeks, I hope you can celebrate Easter in the way that you find best. For me, I am just hoping the next newsletter will not be yet another woeful harbinger of bad news. A good book, glass of wine and handful of kitties will be a nice way to start.
I'll leave you with an image I took in Paris in 2009 when the world seemed so peaceful.
(And don't forget to make the most of the 20% discount off "Resounding Aftershocks"!)
Jenny
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