Recital to celebrate the restoration of the Chapel Organ

The College is rejoicing in the return of the Chapel organ and there was a healthy audience for the official re-opening recital on Sunday 8 December, Winter Bradfield Day. The ever self-effacing Colin Burgess (SCR 72-18) was the organist. In his opening remarks he stated that asking him to be lead the recital was as inappropriate as asking a certain former Premier league footballer – who shall remain nameless as we do not wish to be sued for defamation – to lead a discussion at the Royal Institution. I do not know how the former Premier league footballer would have fared, but Colin certainly showed off the organ’s new voice to good effect and provided great entertainment for the audience.

Please enjoy listening to the recital below:

In the Carol Service that followed the recital, the College Chaplain, Reverend Peter Hansell read the beautiful Re-dedication prayer below;

Almighty and everlasting God, you dwell among angels who praise you continually. You open our mouths to sing salvation’s new song. Your Spirit is the breath of such music. We praise you for this organ in Bradfield College Chapel, which we re-dedicate to your glory alone. We now also set apart this organ for the worship, honour, praise, and glory of God and for the edification of God’s holy people.

Sanctify the art which awakens its harmonies in leading us to worship you. Be with your servants who will use this beautiful instrument to make music for your people as you prepare us on earth to sing your praises in heaven, through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

Many Thanks again to the donors for supporting this restoration project.