Following the Scottish premiere of Howard Skemptons 50 Preludes and Fugues for Organ, Book One, during the 2021 Edinburgh Festival Fringe at St Giles Cathedral, Matthew Owens presents the Scottish premiere of Book Two, as part of this years festival, once again returning to the magnificent Rieger organ at St Giles. Skempton, who celebrated his 75th birthday last October, is one of the UKs most highly respected composers. He has been commissioned by, among others, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Ensemble Bash, and the Birmingham Contemporary Music Group, and is published exclusively by Oxford University Press.

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You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

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Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
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Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
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