For Brenda Staples from Exmoor, a recent birthday turned into an unforgettable occasion when she was treated to the opportunity to play the Grand Organ at Wells Cathedral. Brenda, who regularly plays the organ for 5 churches in the Exmoor Benefice, had been treated to the organ experience as a birthday gift by her children. Brenda, who says she was ‘surprised and delighted’ with the thoughtful birthday treat, is known for her love of music, so playing the cathedral’s renowned organ was, she said, ‘like a dream come true.’
Brenda brought with her a book of handwritten music which has been in St Mary Magdalene Winsford since the organ was given to them in 1861. To get to the cathedral's organ Brenda had to climb the steep stone steps up to the tiny space where the corganist sits. From this musical eyrie the organist has a wonderful view of the cathedral.
In 2021 Brenda raised more than £5,000 when she undertook an organ challenge to play one verse of every hymn in the new hymn book - 850 of them- to raise money for St Mary’s Chruch, Winsford which has a grade one listed organ. She started playing at 9am and with a short break for tea cake and lunch, she continued playing all day.
Wells Cathedral’s Grand Organ is also in need of repair. This much-loved historic organ is soon to undergo extensive repairs. After nearly fifty years it needs major care and attention. The Wells Grand Organ Appeal has been set up to help pay for what will be an extra ordinary task. “The primary objective of the project is to recondition the organ by removing all 5,000 exiting pipes for repair, cleaning or replacement and to overhaul the console, the pedals and the stops.” The organ will then be revoiced and rebalanced. The cathedral also hopes to add a few more pipes to increase the range and interest of sounds available, especially for larger occasions.
Brenda’s special birthday performance was not only a heartwarming moment for her but also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving such a vital part of the cathedral’s musical tradition.
For those wishing to support the organ’s restoration, contributions to the fund can be made via the donate button online. There are also details of the Grand Organ Experience.
