Update April 2010
Well, it was a close run thing, but we made it: the Organ burst into its Easter Praises as never before! Thanks to all the Team at PPO, who worked flat out in Holy Week to get it playable, we celebrated Easter with a real Paean of Praise. The Fanfare before the Gloria burst out with a joy we had literally never heard before – Trombone flaring and literally all the stops out!
There were quite a few jobs outstanding, but the average listener would never have
known. One set of pedal pipes was stacked in the corner awaiting their place in the
Organ, and some of the stop knobs were temporary ones: the proper ones are away for
engraving. They are not glued on tightly, as they have to be removed. There were
several occasions during the morning when Ihad a stop-
The Glass Balcony was adjusted and finished in time for Easter and the Gallery doors were finished off too.
Tuesday morning saw Bob the Organ Builder back with us to carry on the work, and we now have the Swell box working properly and the new home for the missing pedal pipes well on the way. It won’t be long before we can finally say that it’s all done, and can look forward to the first proper Recital (mid – late June).
Also on Tuesday, Ruth Cromack, one the keenest members of the Organ Team had her chance to play the restored instrument, and the photograph shows her playing Hymn tunes – and using her feet properly too ! Another goal achieved!
I think everyone agreed that it sounded as good as it looked. Very soon we will be able to arrange the Service of Dedication and Thanksgiving, and express our gratitude that the vision we had 3 years ago has been fulfilled: we have preserved our Heritage and provided an Instrument worthy to lead our Praise and Worship for the next hundred years.
To God be the Glory – great things He has done.
John and Liz
