THE LEWIS ORGAN AT COMMUNITY CENTRAL HALL  PAGE 2
	The fact that the organ is in high pitch precludes most orchestras and instrumental groups.  After talking to James Mackenzie about the pitch of the organ, it was clear that bringing the pitch down to the current standard (A=440 Hz) was not an acceptable option, because of the historic significance of the Lewis organ.  Besides which, the voicing would be adversely affected, and the character of the instrument changed.  It was also realised that Lottery Funding would not cover a change of pitch.  However, even at its high pitch, the instrument should be considered as a musical and historical asset to the community, its quality and registration enabling the performance of a wide variety of music both secular and sacred. At a meeting held in January 1997, attended by Derek Iggo, Mary Primrose, Gordon S. Frier and myself, we agreed to appoint James Mackenzie to carry out the restoration, in the event of a successful Lottery Funding application.  A year later, no progress had been made.  Local government cut-backs had robbed Community Central Hall of much-needed revenue, and forced Derek to put the project on hold.  Another gremlin reared its ugly head during June 1997, when the blower to the organ became inoperative through an anonymous workman damaging the 3-phase supply wiring.  This effectively silenced the organ.  However, I shall persevere with my campaign, as I seriously believe that this fine specimen of an organ should be given back its voice. Update (1999 - 2000) I hope I'm not being premature, in stating that the future is looking more assured for the Lewis  organ at Community Central Hall. As a result of my persistence, Derek Iggo appointed me as (voluntary) custodian of this fine instrument, which is built into the northern end of the Reid Hall at  CCH.  Because of its architectural significance, i.e. its "art deco" styling, the building is 'B' -listed. As the Reid Hall is the subject of a Lottery funding application, it has been decided that money would be laid aside for restoration work to the organ.  While the Reid Hall is to get a new curtain, new lighting and a new sound system, as well as changing facilities, it is intended to bring the organ up to at least its original specification, which included an 8 ft Trumpet stop on the Great Organ. The first thing to be done, is to raise capital to pay for a new 3-phase electricity supply to the blower.  Derek Iggo came up with the idea of approaching the RSAMD and Glasgow University for help with the expense, in return for a free practice facility for organ scholars, subject to the Reid Hall not having a prior booking.  This would have provided an opportunity for students to play in the community, in an environment quite different from a college or university. I wrote to the key people at these institutions, as well as to the Scottish Federation of Organists (SFO). No financial support was raised, although letters of encouragement were received from David Hamilton, and SFO committee members, Stewart Alston and Alan Buchan. I will be seeking guidance from SFO Organ Advisor, Alan Rodger. It looks as if I'll  have to come up with alternative fund-raising tactics. The quote we are accepting, is for a run of "pyrotech" cable (a high-quality, fire-proof, copper-clad cable) from the main fuse-box to the blower compartment, which is on the ground floor directly below the organ.  The materials and labour will cost about  £1200 plus VAT.  When the blower is working again, the next step will be to obtain quotes from organ builders sympathetic to the restoration of an 1890 Lewis organ.  Once restored, the possibilities for this organ are most encouraging.  Being the custodian, I hope, as soon as the wind supply is re-established, and also, following its restoration, to offer a practice and performance facility to fellow organists. With the excellent catering facilities at Community Central Hall, there is also the possibility of organising training days for budding church organists. MAY 2001 A grant of £500 has been received from the Manifold Trust. JUNE 2001  The J.T.H. Charitable Trust has sent us a cheque for £500. With a total of £1000 raised, I now have a target of £400 to reach, so that we'll have the funds necessary for new 3-phase wiring to the organ blower.  In September, I will be performing on a sponsored organ recital tour to tie in with "Open Doors Day", which is organised by the Glasgow Buildings Preservation Trust. Last year's sponsored recital tour on "Open Doors Day" enabled me to raise £320.10 for charities Mencap and Enable. This year I'll be raising funds for the Maryhill Lewis. SEPTEMBER 2001 Sponsored Organ Recital Tour  Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Glasgow Buildings Preservation Trust had to withdraw most of the church buildings which had constituted last  year's itinerary. During August I've managed to organise four new venues for my sponsored recital tour on Saturday 15 September 2001.. These are as follows:- 11.00 - 12.00  St. Aloysius' Catholic Church, Hillkirk Street, Springburn  (2 - manual Alfred Kirkland organ, 1884) 12.30 - 13.15  Dennistoun Central Church, Armadale Street (3 - manual Father Willis organ 1889) 14.00 - 14.45  St. Luke & St. Andrew's Parish Church (2 - manual Hill, Norman & Beard organ, 1926) 15.30 - 16.15  Shettleston Old Parish Church  (2 manual Lewis organ!) This earned £284.60 for the organ fund, making the grand total of £1,284.60 earned by October 2001. MARCH 23, 2002. Glasgow Churches Open Doors Day. This will provide another excellent opportunity for fundraising. I intend to visit five churches and play a short recital (30-45 min) at each one.
		Organ Specification and Up-date as on April 17, 2002