Cathedral organist and music director ‘humbled’ by honour
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The organist and master of music at one of Scotland’s major cathedrals has said it is “humbling” to be recognised in the New Year Honours list on the eve of his retirement. Michael Harris took up the post at St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh in 1996 and has been involved in many events of historical and royal significance over the years.
He has been made an MBE in the honours list for services to music. Mr Harris, who is due to retire from his role at the cathedral on December 31, said it was a lovely surprise to be recognised and paid tribute to his colleagues. He said: “It’s obviously very sort of humbling to receive this. And, you know, it’s been an immense privilege being part of St Giles’ and its living history, and to be able to lead the music team during that time, it’s a tribute to them, really, as much as anything else.
“Without the whole team in the choir and organists and others, without them none of the great occasions we’ve had in these past few years, as well as our weekly round of course, none of that would have been possible.”. Mr Harris started his musical education as a chorister at Gloucester Cathedral and was then an organ scholar at St Peter’s College, Oxford, before continuing his studies at the Royal College of Music.
Before his move to Edinburgh in 1996, he held posts as sub-organist of Leeds Parish Church and assistant organist of Canterbury Cathedral. During his time at St Giles’ Cathedral, Mr Harris has been involved with services to mark the return of the Stone of Destiny to Scotland in 1996 and the opening of the Scottish Parliament in 1999.
