Presidential Robes

The President of the College is entitled to wear a unique badge and gown on ceremonial occasions such as the Conferment of Diplomas.

The Presidential Badge has 'Music, and achievement in that Art' as the basis for the inspiration of its design. The general form suggests a lyre shape, but the main feature of the design is an organ, the manuals of which are in gold and enamel. From this springs not only the garter containing the name of the College, but the pedestal on which stands the ivory figure of Music playing the reeds. Forming a decorative background are the pipes of the organ in silver. The whole design is held by laurel leaves in gold and enamel.

The inscription on the back records as follows:

'This badge of office was presented by a number of music lovers to the Royal College of Organists to be worn by the President, 23 July 1932'

The work is carried out entirely of 18-carat gold, ivory and enamel, the organ pipes being of fine silver. It was designed and made by Cecil Thomas, ARBS.

The Presidential Gown is of Red Tudor rose damask of the Oxford Doctors' pattern, with bell-shaped sleeves. Sleeves and facings are in RCO pearl shot silk.