The St Gerrans Church organ has been said to be one of the finest small organs in Cornwall. It has been played by a number of Cathedral organists and by members of the Cornwall Organists Association over the years. It is however showing its age with the electronic controls deteriorating and becoming unreliable.
The original organ, by H.P. Dicker of Exeter, was installed in 1855 and was possibly the first pipe organ on the Roseland. This was rebuilt in 1893, and moved to its current position in 1948. The organ was completely rebuilt and enlarged in 1993 by local organ builder, Lance Foy, with other improvements in 1997 and 1998.
The electronic controls have, in recent years required frequent repairs but spare parts are no longer available so we have decided to replace the main electronic control system. In addition we need to improve the airflow around the organ in order to prevent the build-up of mould and damp. The overall cost for this work has been quoted as being up to £5,000.
The PCC and the Diocese have agreed that the work is warranted in order to bring the instrument back to its full capability. Along with supporting our regular worship and the church choir, it is used for weddings, funerals and concerts. The Roseland Churches Choir, which supports a number of churches on the Roseland, also use St Gerrans church and its organ for their rehearsals, as well as singing at many of our services.
We are currently exploring possible grants available to maintain church music. As the organ cannot be classified as historic, due to the number of rebuilds that have been undertaken, some funding options are not available to us. There are however a wide range of other sources that we are exploring.
Over the years St Gerrans has been blessed by generous benefactors, one of whom was Harold Fluke, a retired professional organist, who lived in the village and who funded the entire rebuild and enlarging in 1993. A few years later Harold also provided finance for additional stops. Recently the Choir with help from the Roseland Churches Choir organised a coffee morning to raise awareness of the plight of our organ. St Gerrans is very grateful to all of those who continue to support us in this way.
Kevin Pratt (St Gerrans Churchwarden)