Organ Prodigy Dale de Windt

by Gunther Simmermacher · Published July 2, 2024 · Updated July 2, 2024

At the young age of 23, Dale de Windt is already a seasoned organist and musical director. He told Günther Simmermacher about his life, faith and dreams.

In February, Dale de Windt had the privilege of playing the organ of Westminster cathedral in London. For the 23-year-old musician, it has been a long way since he first learned to play notes on the recorder at the age of five.

Dale takes sacred and classical music very seriously. He was still a teenager when he became a resident organist of St Mary’s cathedral in Cape Town. Before that, he had played the organ in his childhood church, Our Lady of Good Counsel in Bridgetown, Athlone.

From the Cape Flats to the world: Dale has travelled far for his vocation in music, to destinations such as Beijing, Munich and London. “These experiences have motivated me to further my pursuit of excellence in the field of music,” he says.

Dale is in the final stages of his postgraduate studies in organ performance at the distinguished South African College of Music of the University of Cape Town. His dream of continuing his studies at a prestigious music conservatory will be realised next year: he has been accepted for a master’s course at London’s Royal College of Music.

“I’m eager to explore new horizons, delve deeper into the nuances of music performance and broaden my understanding of the global musical landscape,” he says.

The young musician has worked hard to support his studies — and to share his love for music with others. “I hold the positions of organist and choirmaster at St Mary’s cathedral and the Anglican Christ church in Kenilworth. My responsibilities extend to overseeing the musical life of these institutions,” he explains. He also serves as a part-time piano teacher at Herzlia High and Wynberg Boys’ Junior schools, and has also taught music at other schools, including St Joseph’s Marist College.

He describes as “pivotal” his membership in the Cape Town Baroque Orchestra, which specialises in baroque music and is renowned for its use of period instruments. Noteworthy performances include renditions of Johann Sebastian Bach’s “St John Passion” and Handel’s “Messiah” in 2023. “The highlight, undoubtedly, was the opportunity to showcase my skills in performing one of Handel’s organ concertos with the orchestra,” Dale says.

He also made his debut with the University of Cape Town Symphony Orchestra, playing the Saint-Saëns’ “Organ Symphony” in October 2023. “Solo endeavours have also played a significant role in my musical journey, with various organ concerts held in and around Cape Town.”

Two recent visits to London made a particular impression on Dale. “In September last year I had enlightening lessons with the heads of organ studies at both the Royal College of Music and the Royal Academy of Music in London. In February this year I had the distinct honour of playing the organ at Westminster cathedral.”

Bach, Handel, Mozart

Dale lists his favourite classical composers as his peers might rattle off favourite pop singers. “Bach, Buxtehude, Debussy, Handel and Mozart continue to occupy significant positions in my personal musical pantheon,” he says.

He loves to play Bach. “His pieces are always challenging to play. I also have an obsession with some French composers, such as Guilmant, Dupré and Franck.” Among his many favourites in the realm of sacred music is “Ubi Caritas” by the modern composer Ola Gjeilo. “Its emotive richness and contemporary allure captivate both the performer and the listener,” Dale notes.

“My enthusiasm for liturgical music gravitates towards polyphonic compositions, particularly those from the Renaissance era — works by Palestrina, Byrd, and Tallis,” Dale says. “While this may seem old-fashioned to some, they hold deep meaning and were composed for various times in the liturgical year.”

Music is “inherently spiritual”, Dale says, and thus “demands a level of faith, particularly in the careful selection of pieces and thoughtful reflection on readings”.

Outside classical music, Dale has an appreciation for jazz, with a particular fondness for Cape jazz. “The dynamic and vibrant nature of this genre, coupled with my exposure to jazz education during high school, has enriched my musical sensibilities.”

A pope as a role-model

It is no accident that Dale lists Pope Benedict XVI, himself a keen pianist, among his role-models. “His profound commitment to the liturgy resonates deeply with my own passion for ensuring that the musical aspects of liturgical celebrations are executed with the utmost care and reverence. I hold the intersection of music and liturgy in high esteem, and Pope Benedict’s dedication serves as a guiding light in this pursuit,” Dale says.

“I have also been fortunate to have had mentors who instilled in me technical proficiency as well as an appreciation for the artistry and spiritual dimension of music.”

But Dale’s foremost role-models are his parents, “whose unwavering support has been the bedrock of my musical journey”. They arranged those recorder lessons for Dale and bought him a keyboard before he even learned to write. “My affinity for classical music stems from a childhood immersed in the sounds of orchestras and choirs I heard on CDs. It sparked a profound love for music which evolved into a passion that led me to pick up an instrument.”

Music and prayer

His parents also gave Dale a strong foundation in the Catholic faith. “My earliest memories of being Catholic involve attending Mass with my family every Sunday. I remember the joy of occupying an aisle seat, giving me a clear view of the altar. Gratitude fills my heart for parents who moulded me, imparting invaluable lessons and instilling in me faith-filled values. Many priests have also played pivotal roles, with a special mention to Fr Zane Godwin, whose understanding and sensitivity to parish life and liturgy have left a lasting impact on me.”

Currently Dale is a member of the cathedral parish, “but I remain appreciative of the parishes that shaped me in my formative years. They contributed to the wealth of experiences that have influenced my faith and musical journey.”

His faith-life is sustained by a routine of prayer and devotion. St John Paul II, his patron saint at confirmation, “is a guiding force”. Dale regularly tunes into online vespers, especially those at St Mary’s cathedral in Sydney, Australia. “The sung vespers at the cathedral establishes a spiritual connection with Jesus. It offers me moments of gratitude for the abundant blessings I have received.”

At Cape Town’s St Mary’s cathedral his role extends beyond playing the organ. “It encompasses the direction of a professional choir, which typically consists of six skilled singers. Our repertoire is diverse, ranging from polyphonic compositions to orchestral masses and motets. I also take on the responsibility of overseeing the musical planning of various major liturgies, particularly when the cardinal is in attendance.”

Over the years, Dale has had many opportunities to interact with Cardinal Stephen Brislin, the archbishop of Cape Town. “Cardinal Brislin’s consistent appreciation for the standard and quality of music at the cathedral has been encouraging and inspiring. His presence serves as a source of strength and support, fostering an environment where the pursuit of musical excellence aligns seamlessly with the spiritual mission of the cathedral.”

Outside music, Dale finds solace in “serene walks and moments spent watching sunsets. In the midst of life’s busyness, these activities serve as a grounding force, giving me a valuable balance” — as does spending time with family and friends. He also likes playing football.

Looking ahead, “I envision a future where I continue to pursue my career as a concert organist and church musician. I also hope to see the Catholic community forging a robust musical identity. I believe, that mutual support and investment in the rich tradition of liturgical music can serve as a powerful means to unite people, fostering a sense of community and shared spirituality.”

Published in the May 2024 issue of The Southern Cross magazine