The Organ

The organ was specially commissioned for the Chapel from the distinguished French builder Bernard Aubertin in 2004. It was the first Aubertin organ in the UK- there are now other examples in St. John's College, Oxford. The all-mechanical action comprises three manuals with two contrasting Principal choruses and a Flute chorus on Manual 1, in addition to a complete Pedals division. A highly unusual feature is the four-sided case which enables the organ to sound throughout the Chapel.

Though characteristically French in voicing and design with such stops as Voix Humaine and Cromhorne, the instrument is designed to be flexible so that a wide repertoire can be played. The noble Trumpet serves well for Ceremonial occasions, while the generous provision of stops at 8' pitch ensures the organ's function of supporting the choral repertoire is well served.

The highly sensitive suspended action - a particular feature of Aubertin instruments - encourages lively articulation, while the unequal Young's temperament helps to give greater character to different keys. Spanish, Italian, German, and particularly French music of the 17th and 18th centuries are 'at home' on the instrument, but its flexible character is well suited to modern music, with Messiaen sounding particularly well.

Organ music is heard before and after the regular term-time Sunday Services and there is a series of monthly organ recitals during the Autumn and Spring terms usually on Tuesday evenings. The Music at Nine concerts on Thursdays in August often feature the organ. A CD of the organ played by Nigel Allcoat and the University Organist Roger B. Williams is available for purchase from the Chaplaincy or the Music Department of the University.