After a decade of fundraising, the work is done and Stony Stratford's Willis Pipe Organ Festival is fully restored.
People have dedicated themselves to the challenge of 'fixing' the organ, which is resident at St Mary & St Giles Church, and its renewed splendour is something to be celebrated – and that's exactly what is happening this week.
Starting today (Thursday, September 8) a four day festival will mark the work's completion, which was made possible with Heritage Lottery Fund grant.
The organ was originally installed at St George's in Edinburgh and made by the Henry Willis' firm of organ makers. Other examples can be found at Lincoln and Salisbury Cathedrals, and at Blenheim Palace.
Later examples, Henry Willis III instruments are installed in Liverpool Cathedral and Westminster Cathedral, so Stony is keeping good company!
“...the Willis legacy in this country and internationally is without equal – so too their instruments, which are crafted from the highest quality materials and boldly yet beautifully voiced, creating a delightful sound for both performer and listener,” says festival director, Jonathan Kingston.
“The restoration has given the instrument back its vigour, its life. It is very exciting to play and new stops complete the tonal palette beautifully,” he added, “It's absolutely first class. Enjoy it with us.”
This fourth annual festival has three evening concerts for you to engage with:
The Friday Night Organ Pops: Popular organ showpieces introduced and performed by Jonathan Kingston, 7.30pm
Saturday night Silent Movie: Safety Last! Harold Lloyd's wonderful silent movie is an iconic rom-com (to apply some modern day lingo). Donald MacKenzie will be in charge of the musical accompaniment, 7.30pm
Sunday Night Masterworks: Masterworks by J S Bach, Jongen, William Lloyd Webber, Alain, Durufle and Vierne, as performed by Roger Sayer, 7.30pm
Across the four days the church will also be hosting a packed programme of opportunities with free lunchtime recitals, a Beginners Guide to the Organ, Teddy bears' Picnic Family Concert and Hands on our Willis! events.
For more information and ticket details visit www.musicforallsmsg.org
