The Restoration of the Nicholson Organ
BACKGROUNDThe organ was built by John Nicholson of Palace Yard Worcester in 1867 and presented by the 3 rd Earl Somers of Eastnor Castle. When installed it was in a two-bay chamber, positioned against the walls in the NE corner of the north aisle - as may be seen from a print at the back of the church. No records prior to 1962 exist, although some work was undertaken by Nicholson & Lord in 1918.
The organ was enlarged by Ingram of Hereford in 1920 when it was repositioned and the memorial oak screen added. The key and stop actions are mechanical; the essentials of the original console have survived; some of the mechanism and pipe work have been overlaid with later material; the Swell action has been modified; the prospect pipes arranged in'W' form; and it is probable tat the pneumatic action to the pedal department dates from then.
RESTORATION
It was decided in 2002 to undertake a complete overhaul of the organ to conserve it, if it was to survive the 21 st century. Fund raising in 2003-04 raised over £40,000 which included donations, legacies and grants and a substantial grant of £23,400 by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Nicholson & Co (Worcester) Ltd, the original builders, undertook the work from October 2004 to February 2005 when the instrument was completely dismantled and much of it removed to their new factory near Malvern.
While dismantled the opportunity was taken to reposition the organ to face along the aisle, so that the front of the instrument would be well presented and its sound better projected. Click on the image to enlarge.
