As the band was unable to attend, St Patrick’s day service was performed with organ alone. The choir was singing gloriously when suddenly the organ stopped dead. Such a calamity. And that it should occur on that day of all days! Still the choir kept on and Mám accompanied ((Tilly Fleischmann had graduated from the Royal Academy of Music in Munich with organ as one of her two main subjects; she often played during major ceremonies at the cathedral, which allowed her husband to concentrate on the choir. During his internment and subsequent deportation to Germany (Jan 1916-Sep 1920) she officiated in his stead.)) on second manual, foot-blown by man stationed outside. ‘Jubilate deo’ created a real sensation, being a motet for many parts whose brilliance would appeal to everyone.
All the week got sudden attacks of nervousness on thinking of the exam. It is a mighty burden which oppresses me, and I seem to feel that I will never shake it off. If I get through it at all passably, I can imagine how radiant will be the days immediately after!
