“Alone to God be glory”, reads the text above. This phrase adorned every manuscript penned by the great master, Johann Sebastian Bach. This phrase will be carved into the case of a great organ being built in New York, at the insistence of a modern master, who has recently and unexpectedly passed away.

John Scott was the most recent organist and choirmaster at St Thomas Church, New York, a grand place which can be fairly described as the pinnacle of the Anglican music tradition in the U.S. Prior to this he was organist and choirmaster at St Paul’s cathedral in London. His compositions include music performed at the Queen’s “Golden Jubilee”, and Margaret Thatcher’s funeral.

My own connection with his recordings occurred early in my teens when, as a rebel from the low musical tastes of my generation, I began listening to sacred choral music by the likes of Byrd and Tallis. Also, I will make no secret of the fact that I am currently a huge fan of the webcasts of St Thomas Church, New York. I have loved the music, and applaud that they have so far upheld doctrinal orthodoxy (if of a sacerdotal bent) in their theology and practice, against great odds.

For more information on John Scott, consider tuning in to this tribute program on the public radio program
Pipe Dreams”. Also, more information about him can be found at the websites for St Thomas Church and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Our condolences to Dr. Scott’s family, church, and those whom his life impacted. As I scan tributes to him, I have seen over and over that “Soli Deo Gloria” was an important theme in his life and work. May it be so in our lives also.