David Lumsden (musician)

David Lumsden (1928-2021) was a British organist, choirmaster, and academic. He held prestigious positions at several leading musical institutions in the United Kingdom.

Lumsden received his early musical education as a chorister at Durham Cathedral. He later studied at the Royal College of Music in London, where he earned a doctorate in music.

His career included appointments as Organist and Fellow of New College, Oxford (1958-1976), Principal of the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (now the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland) in Glasgow (1976-1982), and Warden of St. Nicolas College, and Director of the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) in Addington Palace (1982-1989).

Lumsden was renowned for his skills as an organist, giving numerous recitals both in the UK and internationally. As a choirmaster, he was known for his rigorous training methods and his commitment to high musical standards. His work with the choirs at New College, Oxford, in particular, led to many acclaimed recordings and broadcasts.

After retiring from the RSCM, he continued to be active as a performer, teacher, and adjudicator. He was awarded a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to music.