Why Patrons of the Organ?
Following the completion of the Cathedral in 1978, the Dean and Chapter were anxious to gather together Patrons who valued the magnificent Willis Organ and would support the various recitals and musical events. The effect of raising costs has been a constant problem to the Cathedral, and in order to sustain the great musical tradition at Liverpool, the Patrons help.
The Organ has been in use since the Consecration in 1924. Between 1958 and 1960, the Organ was completely overhauled and modernised, including a new all-electric action and a new humidifing system. A further major programme of restoration took place during 1977 and 1978. This dealt with widespread deterioration of the mechanism and pipework metal fatigue. Attention was also given to rewiring, using hundreds of miles of special cable, and a new wind system. The cost of this latter restoration was almost £100,000.
The organ is now in the very capable hands of David Wells & Co. Liverpool. The Organ requires regular attention to keep it in good order and a large instrument such as ours, with nearly 10,000 pipes, needs a further £5,000 a year to cover basic maintenance.
The benefits of becoming a Patron
You will receive a membership card entitling you to free admission at each of the four Bank Holiday Recitals, and Anniversary Recital. You will be placed on our mailing list to receive details of musical events. You will be invited to a special summer request recital and social evening - given exclusively for Patrons of the Organ.
If you would like to join, please print and
fill in this form, and mail it to:
Patrons of the Organ,
Liverpool Cathedral,
Liverpool,
L1 7AZ.
Thank you.
