The Organ
The first organ was built by Snetzler in 1767 and many of the original pipes are incorporated within the present instrument which has undergone many changes. At its opening in 1769 the modern music of Handel was performed. The most recent refurbishment took place in the 1990s and was dedicated in 1995. There are nearly 4000 pipes, four manuals and pedal board. There are 72 stops providing combinations of sound that suit a large repertoire of music from different styles and countries.
The organ screen designed by Gilbert Scott in 1885 was made by local craftsman James Elwell. The organ case was designed by Arthur Hill and erected in 1916.
Click here for slideshow of organ screen carvings.
Notable organists have been Matthias Hawdon - the first organist to be appointed, Arthur Henry Mann - later appointed to King’s College, Cambridge, John Camidge (for 57 years), and H K Andrews - an eminent composer and later organist of New College, Oxford.