There’s A Fundraiser to Save Union Chapel’s World Renowned Organ

It may seem a bit leftfield to be having a fundraiser to save a musical instrument but Union Chapel’s 146-year-old church organ is unique. Situated in the heart of London, I’ve had the privilege and pleasure of enjoying many concerts at the venue over the years. Occasionally I’ve even heard the magnificent organ bellow out through the hall. The rare organ is a central part of the Grade 1 listed Victorian Gothic church. I know Union Chapel most as a venue, which hosts the annual Organ Reframed festival that organ musical director Claire M Singer founded and curates – the only festival of its kind in the UK. However, the Union Chapel is an inclusive and progressive church and home to their charity The Margins Project, which supports people facing homelessness and isolation.

Claire M Singer has now launched an appeal as the historic instrument is currently at risk and in need of urgent repairs after a significant crack in the swell section appeared. This was caused by unprecedented climate activity in the Chapel when the building temperature and humidity dramatically dropped during the pandemic’s forced closure, which was then followed by several extraordinarily dry hot summers. Once the crack is repaired, the chapel will install a humidifier to ensure no future damage can occur through the adverse climate fluctuations we will continue to face.

If you’d like to hear the hydraulic organ in action, Clare M Singer performed ‘Forrig’ from her latest album ‘Saor‘ which you can listen to below. What you miss in the recording is how the reverb and drones vibrate through your bones, especially on the low notes. It also features as an instrument recorded and captured for composers on Spitfire Audio too.

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