As a result of extreme fluctuations in temperature and humidity, the Swell section of Union Chapel's organ has sustained a significant crack, making that part of the instrument unplayable. Despite the organ undergoing regular surveys and upkeep (including a complete restoration in 2012-13 by Durham’s prestigious organ builders Harrison and Harrison), the 19th century Father Willis instrument is incredibly vulnerable. The main factors contributing to the damage are the building temperature dramatically dropping during the forced closure during the pandemic, followed by the increasingly dry hot summers. Included in the proposed restoration will be the installation of a humidifier in order to combat the extreme changes in weather we now experience more often.

Claire Singer, Music Director of the Organ says ’It is heartbreaking to see our historic gem suffer damage from the period when I was unable to monitor conditions so closely. After pausing the organ programme this year to concentrate on submitting urgent funding applications, we now desperately need help from the public to make sure we can proceed with the repair so that the organ programme and festival can resume, and the organ can continue to play its central role in the Chapel for generations to come.’

Union Chapel has become known around the world for its ‘Rolls Royce’ of organs, bringing in new commissions for the instrument as well as attracting other artists to perform in the space. The London Contemporary Orchestra, Hildur Guðnadóttir and Craig Armstrong are among those who have recorded in the Chapel.

As of 19 March, the Chapel has raised £62,000 of the £130,000 needed for the repair. A link to donate can be found on the Union Chapel website.