The Organ
Approximately the size of the one in Truro Cathedral, and one of the most unusual church organs in London, this versatile instrument enjoys a sumptuous acoustic. Its pipework fills the north chancel gallery. Built by the local German immigrant organ builder August Gern, it was opened in 1897 by Sir Walter Parrett of St George’s Chapel Windsor before an audience of 770. That four-manual organ, with some additions, was rebuilt by Henry Willis III in 1928, and remains intact to this day. The new console, built at that time, was moved from the organ loft, with exactly the same configuration, to the south transept floor by N.P. Mander in 1955. It is an unusually resplendent and full-toned instrument for a parish church.
An increasingly necessary rebuild now needs be carried out.
The last major work undertaken on the organ was over 100 years ago in 1921. Some minor repair work has been carried in the subsequent years. Now the time has come for a full refurbishment. Having consulted with the church DAC (building advisors), it was decided to that the need to refurbish as much as possible of the existing instrument, including a through clean, and replacing parts that need replacing and upgrading elements where necessary.
Can you help?
The cost of the refurbishment project will be £500,000. We already have £10,000 restricted for this purpose. We are confident that, with your help and support, we can raise the remaining amount over this two-year fundraising project.
Bank transfer to St John’s Holland Road Trust (Registered charity number: 1195250)
Bank account number: 43966146
Sort Code: 23-05-80
IBAN: GB49MYMB23058043966146
Please include ‘Organ Refurb’ in your giving reference
Thank you for your support!
We recognise that not everybody will be able to respond at what is a challenging and uncertain financial time for many.
We’re grateful for all donations received
