Eben Eyres (Music 2023, Peter Walker Organ Scholar) has won the Brian Runnett Organ Competition. 

The biannual Brian Runnett Organ Competition, open to all junior members at the University of Cambridge, requires entrants to perform two pieces from a list of works on the St John’s College Organ. The award is held in memory of organist Brian Runnett (1935-1970). 

Eben applied to the competition during his first term at University. “I was hesitant at first, but after discussing the competition with Matthew (Martin, Caius Precentor and Director of Music) and Harrison (Cole, Assistant Organist) I decided to apply,” Eben says. “I went into it thinking that it would be great to have the experience of playing in the competition, rather than putting pressure on myself.” 

“I focused on performing the pieces well, rather than having any expectations of what could come from it. I think by having that more relaxed way of thinking about it, I gave a better performance than if I’d been overthinking what went well or wrong during the pieces.”

As the Organ Scholar for The Choir of Gonville & Caius College, Eben works closely with the Assistant Organist and the Precentor, who have supported Eben during his preparation for the final. “The guidance of Matthew and Harrison has been invaluable, along with my regular teacher Stephen Farr, all of whom contributed with immensely helpful advice on my pieces for the competition.” 

In addition to his role as Organ Scholar, Eben has immersed himself in numerous musical opportunities at the College, such as performing solo recitals, accompanying recitals and auditions, and conducting Mascagni’s ‘Intermezzo’ at February’s Gonville & Caius Music Society concert.

He adds: “It’s been great to get involved in so many performances, there are so many music opportunities here that it’s really a case of choosing the ones you really want to do and making the most of them!” 

Christopher Gray, Director of Music at St John’s College and chair of the adjudicating panel, says: “We are proud to award our 2024 Brian Runnett prize to Eben, who gave stylish performances that were both technically and musically satisfying. His achievement is especially impressive given the strength of the field of applicants, all of whom play their part in maintaining Cambridge’s reputation as a centre of excellence in organ performance.”

To read more about Eben’s entry, including his choice of pieces and preparation for the event, read the full article on the Choir website.

By Jasmine Habgood