“Old boys” largely from the eras of headmasters Arthur Broadhurst and David Thornton gathered at school on Saturday for a special Alumni recital and lunch ahead of the Alumni Association AGM.

​

They travelled from Northland, Auckland, the Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, Hastings and Whakatane, as well as more locally, to enjoy a Chapel organ recital from two current students learning to play the organ – the first of what is hoped will be a new generation of organists to keep the instrument alive and enjoyed by the school and community.

​

Alumni Chair David Wybourne welcomed all to the Chapel and acknowledged the support of alumni in donating to a fund to allow a major organ restoration to be undertaken last year. Without the support of individuals this work would not have been possible.

​

Students Alex Batchelor and Oscar Wybourne, both Year 10, also thanked the alumni for helping support their tutoring to play the organ. Each was awarded an Alumni Organ Scholarship at the start of this year, enabling them to receive $2000 in tutoring from Dr Philip Smith, organist at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell, who travels to school once a week to provide lessons before school.

​

Both boys have been practising diligently and working to overcome nerves before Saturday afternoon’s recital, with boarder Alex popping in at 6am and several more times Saturday morning to practise!

​

The audience was impressed with their playing and the commitment to learning the treasured instrument that was such a major part of early life at St. Peter’s, along with Chapel attendance and music in general. Old boys could be heard commenting about how they were “fine young St. Peter’s men,” after speaking with them.

​

The group gathered for a light lunch and refreshments in the Vallentine Room, at the College, where Head of School Jason Speedy gave them a brief overview of school values and what’s important today – many themes familiar to their school days including the development of character through an education embracing mind, body and spirit.

​

A short tour of main school buildings followed providing an opportunity to share memories and recollect stories.

​

An occasion of warmth and reconnection – thanks to the old boys who came along, as well as family members, to share the time – and to those who couldn’t make it, we hope to see you before too long.

​