Andrew West - Organ

ANDREW WEST was educated at Bishop Stopford School in Enfield, Middlesex. He started to learn the organ at the age of fourteen and had lessons with Peter Smith (formerly of Cheshunt Parish Church). In 1998, Andrew furthered his studies at Colchester Institute, Centre for Music and Performance Arts and Kutztown University, Pennsylvania, USA, graduating with an honours degree in Liturgical Music in 2001. He studied singing with Ian Ray and organ with Christopher Phelps (former organist of Armagh Cathedral) and Dr Ina Grapenthin (USA).

Andrew was Organist and Choirmaster of Colchester Parish Church for four years, alongside which he undertook postgraduate research in Liturgical Music with Bill Tamblyn at Colchester Institute. He relocated to Pinner in May 2004, taking up the position of Assistant Director of Music at Pinner Parish Church. Andrew had six and a half years of pleasurable music making with Michael Turvey and the church choir, taking them on various cathedral visits.

Whilst in Pinner, Andrew became involved with the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM); he looked after the awards for the London Area for three years. Now living in Dorset, Andrew has continued his association with the RSCM by serving on the Winchester Area committee, and again, looking after the area awards.

Since December 2011, Andrew has been Director of Music at St Luke’s, Bournemouth. He has become a well known organist in East Dorset, playing for services and weddings at other churches when required. Alongside his passion for church music, Andrew keeps himself busy as a professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies, providing a prominent presence at weddings and other functions. He lives in Poole with his wife, Laura.

Andrew is delighted to perform at the 50th anniversary of the Pinner Music Festival!

www.andrewwest.net