Truro Cathedral Is Delighted to Welcome Mitchell Farquharson as it's new organ scholar

Truro Cathedral is delighted to welcome Mitchell Farquharson as the cathedral’s organ scholar for the 2026/27 academic year.

Originally from Hertfordshire, Mitchell brings prior experience in cathedral music, organ performance and music education. Although Cornwall is new territory for him, cathedral music has been at the heart of his life and career for many years.

Before joining Truro Cathedral, Mitchell spent three years teaching at a secondary school in Surrey. Working in a school with a strong musical tradition, he particularly enjoyed encouraging young people in their musical development and sharing his passion for music as part of school life.

Mitchell's cathedral music journey began with his appointment as the organ scholar at Chichester Cathedral during his gap year in 2018. He then studied at King's College London, where he held an organ scholarship throughout his degree from 2019 to 2022.

Following his studies, Mitchell became a graduate assistant at Wells Cathedral School, where he worked closely with pupils and supported the school's celebrated music programme. Alongside his duties at the school, he also got to play for some services at Wells Cathedral in the absence of the assistant organist.

Mitchell's interview for the role marked his first visit to both Truro and Cornwall. Drawn by the cathedral's rich musical tradition and vibrant choral life, he is looking forward to becoming part of the cathedral community and discovering more of the county over the coming year.

As organ scholar, Mitchell will support the cathedral's busy programme of worship and music, working closely with the choir, probationers and music department. He is particularly looking forward to the rhythm of cathedral life, from the daily pattern of rehearsals and services to the opportunity to play for special occasions, services and concerts throughout the year.

The role also represents an important step in Mitchell's musical journey. He hopes the experience will help him further develop his skills and immerse himself once again in the unique environment of cathedral music, providing a strong foundation for what he hopes will be a long career within cathedral music.

Beyond these walls, Mitchell is excited to experience everything Cornwall has to offer. Having already received plenty of advice from friends and family since they learned he was moving to Cornwall, trying out surfing is certainly on the list of activities he wants to tick off during his time in the southwest. Away from music, he also enjoys running and is an avid follower of Formula One.

Truro Cathedral’s director of music, James Anderson-Besant, said: "We are delighted to welcome Mitchell to Truro Cathedral. His prior experiences across cathedral music and education make him an excellent addition to the music team, and we look forward to working with him throughout the year."

There will be plenty of opportunities over the coming year for the cathedral community to welcome Mitchell to Cornwall, including services and concerts.

Welcome, Mitchell!