Walter Farnem Canadian organist. Date of Birth: 13.01.1885 Country: Canada

1. Early Life and Education
2. Return to Canada and Early Career
3. Stint in Boston and War Service
4. Post-War Career in New York
5. Concert Career and Legacy
6. Death and Legacy
7. Honors and Recognition

Early Life and Education

Lynnwood Farnam was a Canadian organist born in Sutton, Quebec, in 1885. At the age of 15, he received a three-year scholarship to the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied piano under Franklin Taylor and organ under William Stevenson Hoyte and Walter Parratt. The college extended his scholarship for an additional year, recognizing his exceptional talent.

Return to Canada and Early Career

In 1904, Farnam returned to Montreal and became the organist at St. James Methodist Church. Over the following years, he held prestigious positions at St. James the Apostle Anglican Church (1905-1908) and Christ Church Cathedral (1908-1913).

Stint in Boston and War Service

In 1913, Farnam moved to Boston and became the organist at Emmanuel Church. Legend has it that when asked what he would play for his audition, Farnam offered a list of 200 works from memory. His career was interrupted by World War I, during which he enlisted in the Canadian army but was unable to deploy due to illness.

Post-War Career in New York

Returning to the United States in 1919, Farnam became the organist at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City for a year. His farewell recital in May 1920 marked his 500th performance. For the final decade of his life, Farnam served as the organist at the Church of the Holy Communion in New York City.

Concert Career and Legacy

Despite his short life, Farnam had a profound impact on the organ world. He was a renowned concert organist, performing extensively throughout his career. He recorded 23 rolls for the Welte-Mignon company and became the head of the organ department at the Curtis Institute of Music in 1927.

Farnam's legacy extends beyond his own performances. He was a passionate advocate for new organ music, introducing audiences to contemporary French and American compositions. He also championed works from before the time of Bach, particularly those of the Buxtehude era.

Death and Legacy

Tragically, Farnam died prematurely in 1930 at the age of 45 from advanced liver cancer. Although he left behind only one composition, his Toccata on "O filii et filiae," his influence as an interpreter and educator continues to inspire organists and music lovers alike.

Honors and Recognition

Lynnwood Farnam's contributions to organ music have been widely recognized. The sixth symphony for organ by Louis Vierne is dedicated to his memory. The annual Lynnwood Farnam Organ Festival in Boston honors his legacy and showcases some of the world's finest organists.