We are delighted that Dr Dawson-Bowling, a current parent, has generously donated a beautiful harpsichord to the School. The instrument, which is an accurate copy of an 18th Century French double manual instrument, was commissioned in 1976 by his mother from David Rubio, who was then a notable figure in building early keyboard and stringed instruments. When shifting  the keyboard sideways the harpsichord can be played at either baroque or modern pitch and the fact it can be played with up to three sets of strings sounding simultaneously, means it is well suited to solo, small group or larger ensemble playing. 

Dr Dawson-Bowling’s mother was an esteemed pianist, and, in the 1960s, with a passion for Baroque music, studied the harpsichord at the Royal College of Music before becoming one of the first people to build a successful career as a performing harpsichordist.

'My mother's passion for playing was matched by her passion for teaching and for enthusing future generations with a passion for music, early music especially. She would have absolutely loved the idea of our family bequeathing this beautiful harpsichord, one of three she owned, to Roedean in her memory. We hope that in many ways it will continue her legacy by enabling many generations of students to develop their love for this wonderful repertoire.

– Dr Dawson Bowling

This is a truly wonderful gift to the School which will be enjoyed by many of our musicians. Its significance is highlighted by the fact that it will be used in the performance of a Baroque piece in next week’s Brighton Festival Fringe concert, where the original owner’s granddaughter, Elspeth, will be the Recorder soloist in Sammartini's Concerto in F.

If you would like to attend the concert on Friday 2nd May at All Saints Church in Hove, tickets are available here.