A DISTINGUISHED organist who was made redundant from St Asaph Cathedral has secured a new role at Rydal Penrhos.

Alan McGuinness has been appointed teacher of music at the Colwyn Bay based independent day and boarding school.

The former organist and master of the choristers at the Cathedral was made redundant alongside John Hosking, ex-assistant organist, in 2018.

The decision was made after the place of worship was forced to into cost-cutting measures following a reduction in their budget.

Mr McGuinness will be working with director of music Pete Williams.

“We are thrilled to have Alan on board and his wealth of experience is going to be a huge asset to our music department here at Rydal Penrhos," Mr Williams said. 

“We have a large number of talented musicians who are going to benefit hugely from Alan’s expertise from a theory and performance perspective, and his appointment is also a real boost for our Senior and Prep Choirs."

Rhyl Journal:

John Hosking was made redundant with Mr McGuinness after decades of service

During his time with the cathedral, Mr McGuinness was given the task of promoting, establishing and directing a new Cathedral Girls’ Choir. This featured current Rydal pupil and music scholar Hannah Davies.

In January 2004, at the age of 28, he was appointed as Organist and Master of the Choristers.

He directed the Cathedral Choirs in both live and recorded broadcasts for national radio and television, and was organist for two broadcasts of Songs of Praise.

Mr McGuinness has given many organ recitals at home and completed a concert tour of New York City and New England in the United States of America.