 About
the organ and church
Holy Trinity is an Anglo-Catholic church which places much importance on the
quality of its liturgy. We are very lucky to have the magnificent organ that
was constructed by 1846 by the famous organ firm of William Hill. Although
it has been overhauled twice in its 160 year life, it remains in the same
place, and in many ways, it is substantially as it was built. From the
preservation point of view, the most important thing was that the sturdy
Victorian mechanics which control the organ, were allowed to remain.The
organ plays an important part in the life of this church, week by week
supporting a strong and enthusiastic choir of adult and junior choristers.
It has been used by eminent recitalists and plays an important role in the
community, providing music for regular school services. It is planned to
give local school children the opportunity to hear and play the organ, and
students the chance to practise here.
What needs to be done
Although this magnificent instrument is still working, it is in urgent need
of maintenance. We consider that it is better to repair properly now rather
than risk a more expensive catastrophic failure in the future.
The church has recently hired the professional services of Mr. Ian Bell,
an organ adviser, whose work nationally and internationally, is well known
and respected. He has produced a comprehensive report, suggesting basically
a restoration to the organ as it was in the 1890s, with one or two minor
alterations.
There are some 1600 pipes in the organ, ranging from pipes sixteen feet
long to tiny whistles, a mere couple of inches long. These need to be all
taken out, cleaned, dismantled, and any worn parts renewed. The wind chests
need repair and the mechanics need overhauling to mend broken parts and keep
them working smoothly.
How much will it cost?
We have obtained four estimates and the contract has been offered to a
small, proficient and well-respected company, T W Fearn & Son, based near
Honiton. The overall cost is £75,000 and the renovation is happily free from
VAT. This represents extremely good value. We already have £25,000 raised or
promised. Work should begin early in 2011, so we have until then to raise
most of the balance.
Here are some examples of how much repair will cost:
- Cleaning and repair of a single pipe can cost from £1 to £25,
depending upon its size and intricacy.
- Cleaning and repair of a whole rank of pipes, usually 54, could cost
from £20 to £250.
- The maintenance and repair to a major item, like a windchest, would
be worked out with the organ-builder but is likely to be several
thousands of pounds.
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A message from our patron,
Nicholas Kynaston
"The fine William Hill organ in Holy Trinity Church, Taunton, was built more
than 160 years ago. During this long period, it has enlivened the liturgy and
supported the singing of the choir and congregation. Because it was constructed
by a master builder, it has required only two major refurbishments in its long
history."
"Standing in a commanding position with elegant casework, it is an instrument
that can be enjoyed both for its looks and its sound. Compared with many other
organs by lesser builders the annual maintenance costs have been minimal, but
with as any other instruments with moving parts, it now requires remedial
restoration work.
"The ownership of such an historic instrument is not only a joy but also
carries the onus of responsibility to maintain it for future generations."
"I am very happy to commend this restoration project as a most worthy cause
for the future life of Holy Trinity Church."
 How Can I help?
The sum to be raised is large and every contribution, however great or small,
makes a difference.
With a one-off payment, you could sponsor a single pipe. You may prefer to
give regularly: £5 a month over two years amounts to £120. If you are a UK tax
payer and can gift aid your donation, the value of your contribution is
increased considerably.
If you would like to donate, please complete the enclosed form and post or
deliver it to the Parish Office, immediately adjacent to the church.
The music of the Hill organ has helped to contribute to the spiritual
experiences of generations past, in contexts both secular and sacred. We
recognise our responsibility to leave in good order the heritage from which we
have benefited.
All contributions will assist us to restore this magnificent instrument. We
hope you will be able to help.
For further information or guidance, please contact:
Holy Trinity Organ Restoration Project
c/o The Parish Office, Trinity Street,
Taunton, TA1 3JG
Email:
holytrinity02@btconnect.com
Download the full leaflet about the organ restoration project here. |
