KCOA Organ Competition 2026 Update
Kent County Organists’ Association
2026 ORGAN COMPETITION
Patron : Margaret Phillips
13.30 hrs, Saturday 14th March 2026
ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH, MAIDSTONE
Adjudicator: Dr David Flood
I am delighted to report that the above was once again a tremendous success with all entrants performing to a high standard as confirmed by Dr David Flood. David adjudicated with customary empathy and encouragement and numerous suggestions for improvement.
In particular two observations stand out namely the bravery of those who chose to play less flamboyant repertoire with sensitivity as demonstrated by our advanced class winners and the importance of steady rhythm and pace over and above total accuracy in terms of notes on the page. Indeed all performers were congratulated in this respect.
I will now liaise with our cathedral colleagues in terms of the promised recitals and other playing opportunities and will publish these when the dates are confirmed. In the meantime here are the results:
Elementary Class
Ben Greaves (Benenden)
1st Prize with a performance of the Prelude in F - Johann Krebs and Bishop's blues - Betty Rose
Intermediate Class
Lukasz Niezgoda (Ely)
Ist Prize with a performance of Carillon de Longpont - Louis Vierne and Prelude and Fugue in E minor, BWV533 - J.S. Bach
Charlie Fan (Sevenoaks)
2nd prize with a performance of Prelude in C - Jules Massenet and Fanfare for Francis - Noel Rawsthorne
Advanced Class
Toby Beckingham (Godalming) -
1st Prize with a performance of Prelude in G Major, BWV 541 - J.S. Bach and Psalm Prelude Set 1 no 3. (psalm 23, verse 4) - Herbert Howells
Josh Cahm (Sutton Coldfield)
2nd Prize with a performance of Praeludium in D - Buxtehude and Les Bergers - Messiaen
Robert Cunningham (West Molesey in Surrey)
Discretionary Prize (in memory of KCOA member Reg Adams)
with a performance of Basse de Trompette - Louis Marchand and Fanfare for Francis - Noel Rawsthorne
Many congratulations to all on superb performances and thanks to colleagues who assisted me in any capacity!
Jim Bryant (Competition Organiser and Chair Person)
