WHEN Philip Moore was appointed Organist and Master of the Music at York Minster, he remarked that it "isn't the sort of place you think of moving on quickly from."

This has certainly rung true, after Mr Moore announced plans to retire - almost 25 years after taking up the post.

He joined the Minster as the replacement for Dr Francis Jackson in 1983 and, since moving from Guildford Cathedral, he has been an important and influential figure, overseeing the music for the enthronement of three Archbishops and the installation of three Deans.

His talent at composing has been seen at many special services and events and, together with the Minster choir, he has produced several acclaimed recordings of hymns, psalms and carols.

He has also overseen several changes in the Minster, including the introduction of girls to the previously all-male choir.

Although he is retiring, Mr Moore said he planned to remain involved in music, although he said he would miss the preparations with the choir for the daily service. He said: "I want to continue doing organ recitals, and help out with the occasional choir, and also continue composing."

He hopes to continue in his role as conductor of the York Musical Society, but also wants to spend more time composing and playing the piano, and is particularly keen to master Brahms's Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Handel Canon Jeremy Fletcher, Canon Precentor at York Minster, paid tribute to Mr Moore for bringing in changes while also preserving traditions. He added: "As only the fourth Master of the Music since 1897, it will be important for us to say farewell in a wonderful way. We hope whoever replaces him will continue the great work he's done."

To mark his retirement, the Friends of Cathedral Music are commissioning an anthem, and special events will be held in the Minster next year, ahead of Mr Moore's retirement in July.

Mr Moore said his time as Master of the Music had been "an honour". A particular highlight was the enthronement of Dr John Habgood as Archbishop of York, an event which he said had a "special aura".

Glyn Webster, Chancellor of the Minster, said Mr Moore would be "greatly missed".

A full catalogue of Philip Moore's compositions can be accessed online at www.yorkminster.org/worship/music/minster-composers/