BLACKBURN CATHEDRAL
Organ Appeal Supporters
We are proud that our iconic organ has been played by some of the most famous organists in the world. See why many of these are supporting our Appeal.
THE ORGAN APPEAL
Here's why esteemed colleagues are supporting the Blackburn Cathedral Organ Appeal
David Briggs
Artist in Residence, Cathedral of St. John the Divine, New York
“I’ll never forget – at age 14 – my first experience of this organ. It sizzled, sparkled and embraced. It was an enormous musical catalyst and I’ve always had the sound of the Blackburn Cathedral in my imagination. It invites you to think out of the box, through its vivacity and effervescence.”
Anna Lapwood MBE
International Concert Organist and Associate Artist of The Royal Albert Hall
“The organ is such an exciting instrument; when it’s playing at its best, it has a glorious fizzing brightness and such a wealth of colours to explore. Please help support its restoration so the organ can inspire current and future organists for generations to come.”
John Robinson
Director of Music, Blackburn Cathedral
“Hearing this unique organ every day is an immense privilege. It’s highly unusual colour palette and it’s almost mischievous concept make it an important part of the UK’s musical landscape and a major Blackburn landmark.”
David Hill MBE
International Conductor, Past Director St. John’s College Cambridge
“The Blackburn Cathedral organ is an iconic instrument and national musical treasure which should be preserved for future generations. It serves the liturgical life of the Cathedral alongside the vast organ repertoire with equal distinction.”
Dr John Bertalot
Organist Emeritus, Blackburn Cathedral
“I designed our 1969 organ with Werkprinzip, French reeds and 32ft Serpent, in consultation with Francis Jackson & JW Walker – and raised the entire money to pay for it. I also played a creative part in the organ’s enlargement. What a privilege!”
Tom Bell
Concert Organist and Regional Director of Royal College of Organists
“The organ at Blackburn Cathedral is such an inspiration. It’s thrilling to hear (and to play!) and is a unique piece of local history and a vibrant part of Blackburn’s future. It is internationally famous, with good reason! I just love it.”
Sir Andrew Parmley
Director, Royal College of Organists
“The organ in Blackburn Cathedral is an outstanding instrument of national importance. It brings so much joy and inspiration to so many and, in my view, it must be restored as an iconic example of the finest British artistry.”
John Hosking
Organist in Residence, Blackburn Cathedral
“Our iconic organ is the most colourful and versatile instrument that I’ve played. We are so fortunate to have this unique resource and preserving it is so important as we continue to inspire future generations of organists and composers.”
Martin Baker
International Concert Organist
“Blackburn Cathedral’s organ is an iconic instrument, unique in the British cathedral tradition and inspiring both to play and to hear. Now into its sixth decade it is vital that it receives the care it needs to continue in its role for years to come.”
THE ORGAN APPEAL
Why your support is so important
We need to raise £250,000 to restore the organ to peak performance and as music is so crucial to the life of the Cathedral, we hope all who love the Cathedral, its music and the organ in particular will contribute towards this appeal.
This is a wonderful opportunity to ensure this significant musical treasure continues to inspire generations of organists and composers.
Everyone who plays our organ is overwhelmed by the breath-taking experience; we need to act now to ensure that this instrument remains in the best possible condition.
THE ORGAN APPEAL
Please help us to restore the
iconic Blackburn Cathedral organ
iconic Blackburn Cathedral organ