100 year anniversary of the London Road organ

Saturday, 01 October 2011

The University pipe organ in the Great Hall

It is 100 years ago this month that the formal opening of the University's beautiful pipe organ that graces the stage of the Great Hall, London Road took place.

Since 21 October 1911 hundreds of thousands of students have graduated to the sound of the organ the origins of which can be traced back to the days when the University was relocated from Valpy Street to London Road.

In 1905, the University Director of Music, Dr (later Sir) Hugh Allen enquired about the cost of building the core of an instrument that could be enlarged as and when funds became available. Six years later a contract was finally signed, paving the way for the construction of the instrument that has become a key part of the University's heritage.

Originally built with money raised by alumni and subsequently benefiting from money given by the Friends of the University, the organ still delights graduates, their friends and families and many others at graduation ceremonies, concerts and other events each year.

Article produced with many thanks to Christopher Cipkin, Liaison Team Manager (Arts and Humanities) in the University Library. A graduate of the University (MA Musicology, 2005) and formerly Music Librarian (1999-2004).

Christopher plays the University Great Hall organ for the majority of degree congregations. He has also given several solo organ recitals in the Great Hall.

Your chance to hear the organ played

A centenary organ recital will be given in the Great Hall, London Road by the organist from St George's Chapel Windsor, Tim Byram-Wigfield on Friday 21 October - exactly one hundred years to the day since the first performance was given on the organ. Tickets £10 (£6 concessions). Advanced bookings recommended. Contact music@reading.ac.uk or 0118 378 4313