We are sorry to share the passing of Alex Anderson, aged 87 on 19 October in Chapel Hill, North Carolina after a short illness. Born in Motherwell, Scotland, Alex’ talent was recognised early on leading to his winning a place at Glasgow University which was some achievement in the 1950s. In 1964 he was a prize winner in the St. Alban’s International Organ Competition.

After several prestigious appointments, including Assistant Organist at St. Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh, and extended study in in Rome and Siena, Alex became Director of Music at Rollins College, Florida. Whilst there he met David Jewell, the Master Designate who was on sabbatical, who invited him to succeed Jack Hindmarsh. Under Alex, music in the broadest sense flourished at Haileybury and many OHs have good reason to be grateful to him for his support and encouragement. Haileyburians were joined by staff and friends of the school to sing in some memorable Choral Society concerts. Under his guidance there were a number of overseas trips, the instituting of an annual spring concert at St. Martin-in-the-Fields and the capturing on CD of many performances.

On his retirement, Alex and his family returned to the US where Alex became a much sought after performer in his new hometown of Chapel Hill, in addition to venues around the country, including the cathedrals of Albuquerque, Houston, and Chicago. He also made time to pursue his love of Golf – always ensuring when he returned to Scotland to play his favourite courses – and continued to take a close interest in the fluctuating fortunes of both Motherwell and Spurs.

A memorial service at St. Philips Episcopal Church, Durham, North Carolina will be livestreamed on January 30 at 4.00 p.m. GMT. The link will be shared closer to the date.

The Society sends its sincere condolences to Jenny, Colin (C & Ha 95) and Kristen. If you would like to send a message to the family, please do so via members@thehaileyburysociety.org

With thanks to Robin Bishop (Former Staff, HM Batten 1984 – 2013)