Talbot Village Trust has awarded Christchurch Priory £20,000 to enlarge its pipe organ to enhance the music offering at the church’s services and weekly recitals.
The grant giving charity decided to support the application after hearing how the Priory runs a variety of community and educational activities and the improvements would enable an even wider outreach programme. The church’s organ required the installation of 544 extra pipes and this expansion has allowed the organ to update its tonal resources and produce sound which is now comparable with a cathedral instrument.
Geoffrey Morgan, Christchurch Priory organist, said: “The Priory organ was already a fine instrument, but it lacked certain tone colours necessary for particular schools of organ music, and some tonal subtleties desirable in the accompaniment of our choral services. The new ‘solo organ’ added in 2017 has surpassed my expectations and we are most grateful to the Talbot Village Trust and all the other donors who have made this possible.”
Russell Lucas-Rowe, Trustee of Talbot Village Trust, added: “Christchurch Priory has been a focal point in the Christian community for many years and we are pleased to provide our support for the parish’s continued enjoyment.
“The Priory’s recitals, which are attended by a vast number of local people, often receive feedback stating that the music performed brings the congregation joy and is a pleasure to listen to.”
Talbot Village Trust meets biannually, and will be accepting applications for funding from both previous and new applicants in the area before the Trustees meet in the autumn of this year. Please go to www.talbotvillagetrust.org for more information.