Cirencester hosts a charity Bachathon (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Cirencester hosts a charity Bachathon

ORGANIST and internationally renowned harpsichord virtuoso Richard Lester is raising money for the very successful Cirencester Early Music Festival, of which he is director, by holding a Bachathon on the main organ in Cirencester Parish Church. He will attempt to perform 32 of the major organ works of Bach between 9am and 4pm on Saturday, April 9.

Since its inauguration, the Festival - which this year will be held between July 25 and 30 - has become a beacon for early music in the South West and has provided a platform for young musicians in Gloucestershire, many of whom have gone forward to study at music colleges.

Richard Lester, former master of the choristers at the Parish Church, is now known internationally through his harpsichord recordings of all the sonatas of Domenico Scarlatti, now nearing completion. He is also a well-known organist, giving many recitals at St Paul's Cathedral, King's College, Cambridge and abroad.

Those wishing to sponsor the Bachathon can obtain forms in a prepaid envelope from Cirencester Tourist Information Centre or visit the website on www.cirencester-emf.co.uk and download a sponsorship form in a Microsoft Word format.