A CHURCH’S newly-installed organ was played for the first time on Thursday to coincide with its centenary.
The instrument, at Holy Rood Church, George Street, was built in Slovenia and has been overseen by Dr John Rowntree, director of music at Douai Abbey in Berkshire.
Fr Damian Hughes, priest at Holy Rood, said: “The old organ which had served the church since its earliest days was very small with just four manual stops.
“It had accompanied hymns and plainchant for over a century.
“However, by 2017 it was in a poor state and no longer fit for a modern church’s musical needs so it was decided to replace it.”
The first recital was given by Michael Overbury, a former winner of the Manchester International Organ Competition and soloist at the Royal Festival Hall.
The second will take place next Thursday.
