Alastair Johnston

Music Postgraduate Research Student

PhD Project Title: Roger Yates (1905-1975) Organ Builder: his Context and Lineage

Supervisors: Magnus Williamson

About Alastair: I retired from teaching Music to 11–18-year-olds after 40+ years in 2020 and now live in West Cornwall. I am a published composer, sing with Truro Chamber Choir and deputise as an organist when needed.

PhD Project Description: I have Yates’ workshop archive and am currently cataloguing his work, drawing up a gazetteer of his instruments and projects. I am also examining his various networks and links with post WW2 early music revival, changes in pipe organ culture and changes in keyboard pedagogy. Lastly, I will examine the work his present-day successors and how this relates back to Yates.

Personal Interests: Music, art, cooking, and travel (mostly in France).

Publications and presentations: Articles and presentations on Yates and his work

Alastair has a BA hons. (music), PGCE, Diploma in Professional Studies in Education (Secondary Music).