AFNOM is supported by the
Royal College of Organists
and the
Incorporated Association of Organists

Stop press London Festival 2008 - final agenda

Martin Stacey, AFNOM Festival Director, writes

“It gives me great pleasure to introduce the 2008 Festival, which will comprise a fascinating series of events taking place over three consecutive days in London. Over the last couple of years, we have been treated to some of the most exhilarating and inspiring music, made many new acquaintances and some firm new friends. Composers have been travelling from Canada and the USA, Scandinavia and central Europe, as well as from all over the UK in order to attend and take part in our exhibition-concerts, recitals and public discussions. I am sure that all those attending this year will enjoy a unique musical experience! The deadline for applications is 1st June 2008.

It is clear from the rich variety of information contained on these pages that this festival is making a valuable impact worldwide, and that a great many people are finding a place for their work that was not available before. Performers are likewise having opportunities to be heard by the best audiences. From this year onwards, we are co-operating with the PLG (Park Lane Group) to expose some of the finest young performers in the UK.

On this website, you can listen to recordings made during performances at the 2006 and 2007 exhibition-concerts, read the programme notes, information about the composers and performers, and transcripts of the discussions. I hope you enjoy sharing in one of the most exciting and rapidly expanding contemporary music ventures in recent times."
                                                                                                                   Martin Stacey, March 2008     

What is AFNOM?

AFNOM is a ‘shop-window’ for new music; a multi-faceted, international festival whose aim is to attract composers of any age, nationality and stylistic background to submit their compositions to be played, heard, discussed and sold. It has been a great privilege compiling programmes from the large number of scores which have been sent by composers from all around the world. The works featured are examples of the overall variety of contemporary styles available to organists today; they show great awareness of traditions and the capabilities of the instrument, but nevertheless shine a light towards the future and its possibilities. We all have much to learn from each other as musicians. The organ music of other countries, cultures and composers can influence our way of thinking and inspire great creativity and growth. It is my sincerest hope that all of you who visit this website throughout the year will find inspiration as well as enjoyment. Through coming together to exchange music in this way, composers and performers can support each other and encourage development. When connections are made, friendships formed or new works created, we will have succeeded in achieving one of our main objectives, which is to stimulate a growth in the overall awareness and appreciation of good modern organ music.