It was a day filled with warmth and gratitude on Sunday, July 6th, as the Norwich Cathedral community gathered to bid a fond farewell to their beloved Organist, David Dunnett, who is retiring after an incredible 29 years of service. The Cathedral was also saying goodbye to some of its choir members who are moving on to new adventures. The atmosphere was filled with a mix of sadness and celebration as the community came together to express their appreciation for the immense contribution David has made to the musical life of the Cathedral. With his remarkable talent and dedication, David has been an integral part of the Cathedral’s fabric, first as Organist and Master of Music from 1996 to 2007, and then as Organist since 2007.
The special presentation to David and his wife Nicky took place after the Sunday Sung Eucharist, providing an opportunity for the entire Cathedral community to come together and express their gratitude for the incredible musical gift David has given to the Cathedral. The event was a chance for people to share their personal stories and anecdotes about David’s time at the Cathedral, highlighting his remarkable impact on the community. As Master of Music Ashley Grote so eloquently put it, “It was incredibly moving to welcome so many former members of Norwich Cathedral Choir back to celebrate David’s remarkable contribution to our musical and community life over the past three decades.” The outpouring of love and appreciation was a testament to the deep affection, admiration, and respect that exists not only for David’s work but for him personally. David’s humility and kindness have touched the lives of countless individuals, and his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift the community for years to come.
The day’s celebrations also included a special Festal Evensong with Choir Valedictions, a traditional service that marks the end of the choir year and provides an opportunity to thank departing members of the choir for their contribution to the life and worship of the Cathedral. The service was a beautiful blend of music and reflection, featuring members of the Cathedral’s Ex-Choristers’ Guild and the current Norwich Cathedral Choir. The event was a poignant reminder of the significance of community and the importance of coming together to celebrate milestones and express gratitude. As David himself said, “Nicky and I were overwhelmed by the kind words and appreciation for my time at the cathedral. It was a very special weekend.” The love and appreciation that filled the Cathedral was a fitting tribute to David’s remarkable career and a celebration of the incredible impact he has had on the community.
As the community bids farewell to David, they are also excited to announce that there are still a few more opportunities to enjoy his music before the end of the summer. On Wednesday, July 16th, David will be performing an organ recital at 7 pm, featuring Liszt’s mighty organ work Ad nos, ad salutarem undam. The recital promises to be a thrilling experience, and tickets are available for £10, with free admission for under 18s. This is a wonderful opportunity for people to come together and experience David’s incredible talent one last time. Additionally, those who are interested in learning more about David’s story can read an interview with him in the latest Prayer Diary, which can be found on the Cathedral’s website. The interview provides a unique glimpse into David’s life and career, offering a deeper understanding of his passion, dedication, and love for music.
The Cathedral community is grateful for the countless ways in which David has enriched their lives through his music. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift the community, and his contributions will never be forgotten. As the community looks to the future, they are filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation, knowing that David’s spirit and passion will continue to live on through the music and worship of the Cathedral. The farewell celebrations were a poignant reminder of the power of music to bring people together and transcend time and circumstance. As the community says goodbye to David, they are also celebrating the incredible gift of music that he has given to them, and the countless ways in which he has touched their lives.
In the end, David’s retirement marks the end of an era, but it also represents a new beginning. The Cathedral community will continue to thrive and flourish, inspired by the legacy of David’s music and ministry. As they look to the future, they are filled with a sense of hope and anticipation, knowing that the music and worship of the Cathedral will continue to be a source of comfort, inspiration, and joy for generations to come. The farewell celebrations were a fitting tribute to David’s remarkable career, and a celebration of the incredible impact he has had on the community. As the community bids farewell to David, they are also grateful for the opportunity to have shared in his journey and to have been touched by his music and ministry. The memory of David’s time at the Cathedral will live on, a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and transcend time and circumstance.
