THE ORGAN IN NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE CITY HALL
Introduction
The Harrison & Harrison concert organ in Newcastle City Hall is a uniquely important instrument. Nationally it is the most iconic concert organ of the 1920s – in many ways the last of its line and arguably the finest. But it stands in need of urgent help. Now nearly 80 years old, the sheer passage of time, coupled with lack of maintenance and 30 years of under-use, have rendered the organ virtually unplayable. However, it can be readily restored as nothing has been spoilt or altered, and to that end it is the subject of an ongoing initiative by NDSO.
The objective is to secure the complete restoration of this superb instrument in full co-operation with the hall and civic authorities. Mr Paul Hale, Rector Chori at Southwell Minster and an Accredited Member of the Association of Independent Organ Advisers acts as consultant. His comprehensive report on the organ was published in May 2007, following a very thorough inspection earlier in the year, and will be used to inform the development of the way ahead. We can provide copies of the full report on CD Rom in pdf file format at a cost of £5 (inc p & p in the UK). The small profit from this will go towards the project. If you would like a copy, or want further information about the City Hall organ/project, please e-mail NDSO at waughy@btinternet.com
These pages are a first response to the many requests that we have received for information about the organ, and will be further developed over time. At present they consist mainly of extracts from the descriptive sections of a recent consultant's report by Paul Hale which was supported by generous donations from our members and from The Organ Club.
Please click on the links below to find out more about this wonderful organ:
General Description ¦ Specification ¦ History ¦ BIOS ¦ City Hall Links