In a surprising turn of events, Anna Lapwood, famously known as the “TikTok organist” and the director of music at Pembroke College in Cambridge, has announced her departure from the esteemed university institution. Lapwood, who has dedicated nine years to Pembroke College, will be stepping down from her role at the conclusion of the academic year.
The decision comes as Lapwood sets her sights on expanding her career as a concert organist, a passion she intends to pursue with renewed focus and dedication. Her remarkable contributions to the world of music were recognized with an MBE award in 2024, underscoring her profound impact on the industry.
Lord Smith, the Master of Pembroke College, lauded Lapwood for her transformative influence on the institution’s musical landscape, noting her instrumental role in shaping the college’s music programs and choirs. Lapwood’s journey to becoming the director of music at Pembroke College commenced following her graduation from Magdalen College, Oxford, at a youthful age of 21.
Throughout her tenure, Lapwood’s tenure was marked by a series of notable accomplishments. She pioneered the establishment of the Pembroke Girls’ Choir, championed the works of female composers, and bolstered the college choir’s presence on prominent platforms such as the BBC and public radio stations.
In a testament to her innovation and adaptability, Lapwood spearheaded the creation of the NHS Chorus-19 during the challenging period of the Covid lockdown, uniting over 1,000 NHS staff members across the UK in a virtual choir experience. Her tireless advocacy for the organ as an instrument of great versatility and beauty was exemplified through her engaging social media presence, which garnered widespread acclaim and recognition.
Reflecting on her decision to depart from Pembroke College, Lapwood expressed profound gratitude for the collaborative community she had cultivated during her tenure. She described her time at Pembroke as a source of immense joy and fulfillment, emphasizing the privilege of working with the chapel choir and the girls’ choir.
In response to Lapwood’s impending departure, Pembroke College conveyed its appreciation for her pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication to musical excellence. While the college expressed sadness at bidding farewell to such a trailblazing figure, it extended its well wishes to Lapwood for her future endeavors and eagerly anticipated the evolution of her career trajectory.
As Anna Lapwood transitions to the next chapter of her musical journey, her legacy at Pembroke College stands as a testament to her indelible mark on the musical landscape. Her departure signifies not an end, but a new beginning filled with promise and potential, as she embarks on a path towards further artistic exploration and creative innovation.
The world eagerly awaits the next symphony of achievements that will undoubtedly emanate from the talented maestra, as she continues to enchant audiences with her musical prowess and unwavering dedication to the
