Organ
Originally built by Father Henry Willis in 1876, the exquisite gold and red organ sits proudly either side of the Quire. It replaced the famous Father Smith organ of 1686. It has a staggering 5,746 pipes.
The organ is a four-manual instrument with the pipes coming down under the floor and up the opposite side. A pioneering idea, it is one of the finest organs of its time.
But it was a little too ahead of its time, and by the 1900s the far side of the organ was not working properly. Organ builders Harrison & Harrison of Durham rebuilt the instrument in 1905 and still care for it today.
Interesting facts
Changing for modern times
- Over the centuries the organ has undergone extensive improvements, while still keeping to Willis’ original design.
- Harrison & Harrison completed many much-needed additions by 1935 and then carried out a full reconstruction, including installing a new console, in 1970.
Thoughts and reflections
Review from the Choir
“No mere figures, however, can do justice to its sound or to its effect in the building. Concept, design, placing, voicing and environment combine to make it one of the most triumphantly successful organs of the English-speaking world, a legend in its own lifetime” Durham Cathedral Choir Association.
Follow the guided tour
You’re in: The Quire You’re at: Organ Next stop: Gilbert Scott Screen
- Look back towards the Nave, you will see a stone screen across the end of the Quire
- This is the Gilbert Scott Screen