Ron
Bayfield on transcribing organ music into Braille
David introduces his friend, Ronald Bayfield, who has enabled
him to add not only church music, but also some major organ
works to his repertoire. It takes a very special kind of perfectionism
and application for a sighted person to conquer the challenges
of Braille music. Ron’s story illustrates his great technical
experience and systematic mind-set, combined with a sense of
humour and an apetite to learn.
Hotel-based
GDBA training with a new guide dog
In January 2006, David attended a hotel-based course to train
with his new guide dog, Doge. In this essay he writes about
this experience, how it differs from courses run at the former
GDBA centres, and highlights some points other guide dog users
might want to consider as they prepare for a hotal-based course.
On
the retirement of guide dog Campbell
David and his guide dog Campbell have been together since
February 1997. After nearly nine years, Campbell is due to retire
in January 2006. David reflects on this vital relationship and
the part Campbell has played in his life.
Recollections of Felix Aprahamian (1914 - 2005)
David first met Felix Aprahamian in 1978 and thereafter was
helped and guided by him. David here recalls some of the many
aspects of their friendship and draws a closely-observed portrait
of his friend and mentor.
Blind
organists, and the challenges of church music-making
David has been organist of St Barnabas Pimlico since 1985.
He writes about some of the challenges facing a blind church
musician and how he has found solutions to them.
Learning
Widor's 7th Symphony
Read about David's approach to learning a major work to add
to his repertoire. He performed the complete Symphony at St
Dominic's Priory, London in November 2004, at Newcastle Cathedral
in April, and at Sneek in the Netherlands in July 2005. Another
complete performance will be given on 14th October 2007 at St
Mary's Bourne St, London SW1.
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