St Magnus Cathedral to undergo £500,000 restoration of 100-year-old organ

The iconic organ of St Magnus Cathedral, which has accompanied Orkney's community for a hundred years, is due for an extensive restoration costing half a million pounds.

Constructed in 1925 by the renowned Henry Willis and Sonsthe same makers behind the Royal Albert Hall organit was installed in Scotlands oldest cathedral in 1926. Fran Hollinrake, curator of the cathedral, remarked: This organ has been heard by everyone in Orkney at some point. It has accompanied countless important moments and events in the lives of people here.

Orkney Islands Council is now seeking tenders for the refurbishment, with the project valued at approximately 500,000. Pipe organs typically require major maintenance every 40 to 50 years, and the last restoration of this instrument took place in 1971.

The Society of The Friends of St Magnus Cathedral has pledged financial support for the restoration. Secretary Les Donaldson stated that while grant funding is expected to cover most expenses, crowdfunding and sponsorship opportunities will also be explored. The Friends will ensure this project succeeds and that the organ reaches a world-class standard, he added.

Positioned at floor level near the back of the cathedral, the organ pipes are partially concealed by a decorative screen designed by George Mackie Watson, with the keyboard located to the right of the pipes. Following the selection of a preferred contractor, the restoration is anticipated to take around nine months, which may include temporarily dismantling and removing the instrument from Orkney.

Donaldson emphasized the cultural importance of the organ, describing it as an integral part of St Magnus Cathedrals heritage. Once restored, he hopes the instrument will attract top-tier musicians to Orkney, enhancing both the cathedrals reputation and the global standing of the organ itself.

Author: Olivia Parker