Thunderous performance of Saint-Saëns' Organ Symphony by Anna Lapwood on the 9,999-pipe organ at Royal Albert Hall
In a glorious display of classical music, organist Anna Lapwood captivated a crowd of 5,000 people at the Royal Albert Hall on September 22, 2024. The performance, which was featured on our website, saw Lapwood collaborate with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and conductor Kirill Karabits.
The centrepiece of the concert was Camille Saint-Saëns' 'Organ Symphony', a symphony with added organ as it is often referred to. The organist, known for bringing something fresh and special from the organ loft, created a massive sound from the 9,999-piped organ, filling the hall gloriously.
Anna Lapwood, at the age of 21, made history as the youngest ever director of music for an Oxbridge college at Pembroke College, Cambridge. Her talent has not gone unnoticed, with Franz Liszt once referring to her as the greatest organist in the world.
Lapwood's performance at the Royal Albert Hall was described as awe-inspiring, particularly during the final movement of the 'Organ Symphony'. Known for its full-organ blast, this moment is one of the most thrilling in classical music.
The performance was covered by Kyle Macdonald, and it was not the first time Lapwood graced our website. She had previously performed at our Live in 2022 event.
While specific confirmation of Lapwood performing the 'Organ Symphony' at the Royal Albert Hall in September 2024 is not found in the sources provided, her association with the Royal Albert Hall Proms events around that period is notable.
Lapwood's influence extends beyond the classical music world, with millions of views on Instagram and TikTok through performances, musical campaigns, and interactions with music lovers. She continues to bring the organ to a new generation of players and listeners.
The 'Organ Symphony' by Camille Saint-Saëns, with its unique blend of symphony and organ, remains a testament to the power and beauty of classical music. Anna Lapwood's performance at the Royal Albert Hall was a fitting celebration of this masterpiece.
