We’re pleased to announce the complete rebuilding of the Thomas Sheffield hybrid pipe organ with new layout, new wind system and blower, tonal changes and new digital voices.
When we first visited to examined this instrument, we were taken by the lovely tone of the Great 8′ Diapason. It was certainly more of a French Montre than an English diapason and, therefore, we proposed to the church that the rebuilt organ would have a distinct French flavour and would certainly elevate the organ-led liturgy.
The Sheffield analogue electronics had begun to fail and the switching system was unreliable. We have replaced the analogue sound generation with a new Viscount Physis sound engine – meaning seamless blending of pipes and digital voices is now possible.
The wind system was, to say the least, unconventional! Full organ was only possible for a couple of seconds. We have fitted a new blower along with a conventional reservoir and new wooden trunking.
Finally, the console was due for upgrade or replacement. Initially, we thought that upgrading would be the best way forward but, after detailed inspection, the build quality was deemed not worthy of restoration. We have provided a refurbished Oak drawstop console which has been completely stripped-down and restored, new stop jambs made in Oak, and new keys fitted. It looks wonderful – please see below for progress photos!
The specification can be found here Specification.
Many thanks to the church authorities for their unswerving support of this scheme, and to their resourceful and imaginative organist, Marcus Wheatley, for his vision.