The first organ at Holy Trinity was built by Bishop and Starr in 1869. This was replaced by a larger, finer instrument built by Bishop and Son in 1888. The poor state of the pneumatic action necessitated a thorough reconstruction by the firm F. Tunks and Sons in 1923. The action continued to be troublesome and was partly electrified by Hill, Norman and Beard in 1949. During the 1950's small additions were made by F.H.Browne and Sons.
Reconstruction in 1923 left the organ with a poor tonal design, and defects in blend, balance and voicing became increasingly apparent. Some pipe work was damaged, and eventually there was severe deterioration of the post-war electric action. This led to a major investigation and in 1965 it was decided that essential work must be undertaken. The task of rebuilding the organ was carried out by J.W. Walker and Sons in 1966. The design was largely the responsibility of John T. Belcher who was organist of the church at the time.
It has been the policy, since this last rebuild, to regularly monitor the organ for signs of wear and tear with any maintenance or other work being carried out in a staggered way, as and when required. This should avoid the necessity for another major rebuild in the future and also keeps the organ in top condition.
Necessary works completed have included a new piston action and capture system installed by F.H. Browne and Sons in 1985, this was replaced by Browne’s in 2003 when the organ was rewired and now includes a stepper system. Both the Positive and Swell divisions have been cleaned and overhauled with the Great and pedal divisions still do be done over the next few years.
In 2007 F.H. Browne and Sons donated a new Great Trumpet stop in memory of the late John Blaskett (Organist and Choirmaster 1980-1990) and the Clarinet stop was restored to the positive section. Both additions have enhanced the organ considerably.
The instrument is one of the finest in the South of England and is highly suited to all types of organ music. It has a very clear chorus structure in each department and fills the building with richness and brilliance. It is a credit to the builders and to those who had the wisdom and devotion to produce such an excellent instrument on the firm foundations laid down by the original builders.
You can help keep this treasure for future generations by sending or leaving a donation in the church. Alternatively we hold a series of organ recitals on Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm during the summer months of July, August and September; any profits from these go toward the organ. Events like these added to the generosity of the congregations and friends of the church have meant that the up-keep of the organ has been maintained. Leaflets are available in the church should you wish to become a member of “The Friends of the Music”, any help you can give would be much appreciated.
