Quick Facts
Biography
Russell Arthur Missin (15 July 1922 – 28 November 2002) was an English cathedral organist, who served in Newcastle Cathedral.
Background
He was born in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire on 15 July 1922. Russell's parents lived in a small village, Gorefield just outside Wisbech; this is where his ashes are interred. He was awarded his FRCO CHM in 1947 and took a Doctor in Theology (Church Music) degree from Geneva Theological College, America. He also held the A.D.C.M. (Archbishop of Canterbury's Diploma in Church Music)
He was much loved by members of Newcastle Cathedral Choir, who on the final Friday Evening Practice, before his retirement, gave him a standing ovation. "How many Choirmasters could have said that there was a T-shirt made in his name and another for him personally. We were honoured to have him as our Choirmaster, Leader and Friend all rolled into one."
His wife Muriel, sons Nicholas and William along with Russell have their places in the history of Newcastle Cathedral Choir.
Career
Assistant organist at Ely Cathedral 1945 - 1949
Organist of:
- St Mary's Church, Thetford
- St Giles, Cambridge
- Holbeach Parish Church
- All Saints' Church, Oakham 1950 - 1956
- St. Mary's Church, Nottingham 1957 – 1967
- Newcastle Cathedral 1967 – 1987
- Christ Church, North Shields 1989 - 1999
| Cultural offices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by David Lumsden | Organist and Master of the Choristers of St. Mary's Church, Nottingham 1957-1967 | Succeeded by David Sheeran Butterworth |
| Preceded by Colin Ross | Organist and Master of the Choristers of Newcastle Cathedral 1967-1987 | Succeeded by Timothy Hone |