Organists limbering up for appeal fund '˜hymathon' in Misterton

The musicians will taking part in a ‘hymathon’ at All Saints in Misterton to raise funds for the repairs to the church’s organ.

Resident All Saints organist Fiona Law will lead the group as they work their way through the church’s hymn book, playing at least one verse of all 766 hymns in it.

Organists will be at the keyboard from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, April 29 and Sunday, April 30 and then again from 10am to 2pm on Monday, May 1.

All funds will go towards the church’s organ appeal.

The unique 1875 pipe organ has been played at weddings, funerals, and services at the church for more than 140 years.

It is almost entirely in its original condition.

However, a pedal mechanism broke last year and was repaired at a cost of £2,500.

While carrying out repairs, a further £3,800 of urgent work to the sub bass (the deep, low-register that gives the organ its distinct quality) was identified.

Both these unplanned repairs were paid from the church’s organ fund – a pot of money that parishioners have paid into for 15 years.

But the fund is now exhausted and yet more work is needed to overhaul the rest of the instrument, costing an estimated £14,000.

The organ was a gift to the village from Mr & Mrs Wells in 1875.

The Wells’ were local benefactors, who, in the same year, instituted the Wells Charity, which is still active today

Anyone able to help with the appeal to raise funds for the organ should contact Hazel Duffner, the church’s treasurer on 01427 890877.

The hymathon will also help raise funds for the repairs and Fiona is looking for sponsors.

Additionally, for a £5 donation, she will play a request for anyone during the event, perhaps a hymn played at a wedding or other special event.

Visitors are invited to drop in and hear Fiona and guest organists play during the hymathon weekend.

And anyone able to play the organ (and sight read music), is invited to sign up for the schedule of organists.

Call Fiona on 01427 890632 to book a slot