Publicity Resources

Martin Setchell is an international concert organist, composer and arranger whose lively playing, imaginative programmes and warm, good-humoured presentation have entertained audiences throughout the world.

Originally from Blackpool, England, he studied French and Music at the University of Exeter and gained his Fellowship of the Royal College of Organists, winning both the Limpus and Shinn prizes. He moved to New Zealand in 1974 and taught at the University of Canterbury School of Music for 40 years, becoming Associate Professor of Music.

Martin has performed throughout New Zealand and Australia and in Europe, Britain, North America and Asia. Since 1997 he has been curator of the Rieger pipe organ in Christchurch Town Hall.

Martin's musical life extends well beyond the concert platform. He is a composer and arranger, teacher, choral accompanist and continuo player, conductor, writer and public speaker. He founded Christchurch's Jubilate Singers and has a particular interest in choral and chamber opera. His organ compositions and transcriptions are published internationally, and he has made numerous recordings.