York Minster

York Minster celebrates "Old" York - New York connection

Published Monday 2nd July 2007 by Alix Peacock

York Minster is always aware of the link between Old York and New York.  Just now, the Minster is hosting guests from New York and will also welcome a recital by an outstanding New York Choir with links to the Minster.   To celebrate the friendship between the churches in two cities the Minster welcomes guests from the Diocese of New York, and particularly from St Thomas’ Church, Fifth Avenue, which has special connections with York Minster.

The Dean and Chapter of York are also currently host to The Right Revd E. Don Taylor, the Vicar Bishop for New York City.  Bishop Taylor is staying at the Deanery throughout June and July as he shares in the life of the Diocese and Province of York.  Bishop Taylor also hopes to strengthen the bonds of fellowship between “Old” York and New York.

The Choir of St Thomas’ Church, Fifth Avenue, New York, is to give a recital in The Quire of York Minster on Saturday 14 th July 2007 at 7.30pm.  The proceeds will go towards the Minster’s Music Development Campaign, and will help to maintain the musical life of the Minster.  St Thomas’ Choir was founded by former Organist of York Minster, Thomas Noble.  In 1913 Thomas Tertius Noble, organist of York Minster from 1897 to 1913, sailed across the Atlantic and founded the Choir and Choir School of St Thomas’ Church, Fifth Avenue, New York. The choir is now considered to be one of the best  who sing in the Anglican musical tradition in the USA.

The programme for the recital will reflect the “Old” York – New York connection with performances of music by T Tertius Noble, Philip Moore - the Minster’s current organist, John Sheppard and Rachmaninov.  The main item also has a York connection: Britten’s delightful Hymn to St Cecilia was written to a text by WH Auden, who was born in York 100 years ago.  Britten composed this piece during his sea voyage back from America in 1942. Tickets for the recital, costing £7.50 or £5.00 concessions are available from the Minster Reception Desk in Church House, Ogleforth, Telephone 01904 557208.

The friendship between St Thomas’, New York and York Minster will continue to be celebrated on Sunday 15 th July when The Revd Canon John Andrew, former Vicar of St Thomas’, will return to preach in the Minster, 50 years after his ordination in the cathedral. The Dean and Chapter will welcome back Revd Canon Andrew on Sunday 15th July 2007, when he will preach at Sung Eucharist at 10.00 am.   Everyone is welcome to attend this service.