Grand Festival March

Henry Charles Tonking was an eminent organist in the late Victorian period, who has somewhat faded from the musical scene today. Amongst his professors at the Royal Academy of Music was Ebenezer Prout and later in life, he taught Sir Henry Wood, the founder of the famous Promenade Concerts. Wood said of his playing that he was 'an exceedingly gifted organist and violinist.' Tonking was appointed Organist of Illogen Parish Church at the age of 13 and returned to Cornwall towards the end of his life to become organist at St. Ives Parish Church and then Newquay Wesley. His prominence in London saw him perform many concerts at the Royal Albert Hall, and he gave the premiere of Enrico Bossi's Organ Concerto at the Proms in 1904. He also curated a series at the International Horticultural Exhibition at Earl's Court, performing 3000 pieces in the space of 6 months!

Bill Tonking, his Great Nephew, feels passionately about reviving further interest in organ playing amongst young people in Cornwall as well as paying tribute to the career of his relative. He has instituted the H.C. and W.L. Tonking bursary as a part of his will, hoping that young, aspiring Cathedral or concert organists from Cornwall will benefit from this fund.