08.08.2011
New Coordinator of the Royal School of Church Music appointed for Ireland
An experienced parish church organist has been appointed to a leading church music rôle in Ireland. Mark Bowyer, who is based in Dublin, has been appointed as the Royal School of Church Music’s (RSCM) Coordinator for Ireland. He succeeds Peter Parshall, who held the post for several years. The RSCM supports and trains church musicians including organists, singers, choir directors and instrumentalists.
Originally from Macclesfield in Cheshire, Mark has been involved in church music since the age of 11, as a singer, organist and choir director. Since moving to Ireland in 1999, he has maintained and developed his interest in church music alongside senior management positions at Christ Church and St Patrick’s Cathedrals in Dublin and at St Canice’s Cathedral in Kilkenny. Mark is an enthusiastic parish musician, having held posts both in the UK and in Ireland, most recently as organist of the Killeshin Group of Parishes in Co Carlow.
Mark was awarded the Archbishops’ Certificate in Church Music by the Guild of Church Musicians in 2002. He has played an active role in the work of the RSCM’s Irish committees since 2007, firstly as Honorary Secretary and currently as Honorary Treasurer to the Republic of Ireland committee.
Speaking of his appointment Mark said: “I am delighted to take on this leadership role continuing the excellent work by Peter Parshall. With the help of the two committees, I look forward to furthering the work and mission of the RSCM by expanding existing relationships and forging new ones, not least with other organisations working to support church musicians here in Ireland.”
Lindsay Gray, Director of the RSCM, commented on the appointment: “I am extremely pleased to welcome Mark as Coordinator for Ireland. He comes with a wide range of experience and knowledge in relation to church music, and understands at first hand how church musicians operate, not just at cathedral level, but also – and especially - at the other end of the spectrum in terms of the smaller churches.”
The Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) is an educational charity that promotes the best use of music in worship, church life, and the wider community. The RSCM also publishes music and training resources, and organises courses, short workshops and activities. With around 8,500 affiliates, members and friends in over 40 countries, it is an international network, supported by over 600 volunteers and a small team of staff based throughout the UK and Ireland. More at www.rscm.com.
For further media enquiries contact:
Stuart Robinson: RSCM Media Relations Organiser
srobinson@rscm.com 07831 827701
Heather Bamber: RSCM Marketing & Communications Administrator
hbamber@rscm.com 01722 424847
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