12/10/2026
PART 1 ORGAN SCHOLAR NEWS
We are delighted to announce the following for 2026/27.
Thomas Dennill will be Senior Duchy of Lancaster Organ Scholar
Tom writes: "Before coming to Lancaster, I was an organ scholar at St Peter & Pauls Wantage. I then became the Assistant Organist for a year where I played for many different services and gained lots of experience. I now live in Lancaster as I am currently a Year 2 Medical Student at Lancaster University and have been the Senior Organ Scholar at the Lancaster Priory for the past year. I'm excited to continue my post at the Priory for this academic year and hope to contribute to the music of the Priory.” Tom has completed his Grade 8.
Alex Hemple will be Senior Duchy of Lancaster Organ Scholar
Alex is currently on his placement year in Lancaster and will continue his Chemical Engineering degree at the University of Bath in 2027. Alex was Organ Scholar at Bath Abbey 2023-24, and has regularly freelanced since. At the University of Bath, Alex has MD’d 4 musicals, String Ensemble, and accompanies the choir. He looks forward to his year at the Priory with Nick, Ian, and the Music Team. Alex also has Grade 8 organ.
Karl Westermann will be Duchy of Lancaster Organ Scholar
Karl writes: "I first played the organ in year 6, and that's when I first saw the huge range of repertoire the organ had to offer, from early baroque to modern. It is a privilege to be able to work towards playing more and more pieces over time and also to be able to play for the church."
Karl is currently working on his Grade 8.
