ORGAN OF THE MONTH 11: May 2003
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St Mary's, Selly Oak (Nicholson,
1903) |
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The present organ is based on the instrument constructed by Nicholson of Worcester at the beginning of the last century, but pipework dating back to the church's original organ (1862, probably by Halmshaw) is thought to have been included.
A major rebuild took place in 1958, again by Nicholson, when the location of the organ was changed in order to create a vestry for clergy. A new South Transept case was provided in solid oak, together with a new three-manual console on the North side of the Choir. Completely new electro-pneumatic action was used.
By the 1990s, the organ again needed a rebuild, and in 1996 this work was entrusted to Sheffield Organs of Olton assisted by Organ Tuning Services of Stratford-upon-Avon. The opportunity was taken to make a number of significant tonal changes, including addition of a Great Trumpet (also playable from the Choir) and Pedal Trombone. In 1999 a Nazard and Recorder (2ft) replaced a Twelfth and Piccolo in the Choir Organ.