Transforming the Sound of Carlisle Cathedral for Generations to Come
Transforming the Sound of Carlisle Cathedral for Generations to Come
Carlisle Cathedral is delighted to announce that renowned organ builders, Nicholson & Co. Ltd, have been commissioned to work on a major project to restore, rebuild and renew its historic pipe organ, to protect and conserve one of the nation’s most significant musical assets for decades to come.
Originally built by the Victorian organ builder ‘Father’ Henry Willis in 1856 and expanded in 1875, the Cathedral organ has been shaped over time by distinguished firms including Harrison & Harrison (1907), J. W. Walker & Sons (1962), and David Wells Organ Builders (1997). This rich legacy has created an instrument of great historical and musical importance at the heart of Cathedral worship and community life.
The forthcoming programme of work will focus on ensuring the long-term reliability and musical integrity of the organ. The internal mechanism will be entirely replaced and reconfigured to improve efficiency and accessibility, while a new console will be installed to meet modern performance standards. Alongside these structural improvements, the project will refine the organ’s tonal scheme, strengthening its vital role in supporting choral excellence and vibrant congregational singing.
The project will be overseen by consultant Nicholas Thistlethwaite, a leading authority on historic organs, ensuring that the rebuild honours the instrument’s heritage while equipping it for the future. A full specification detailing the vision for the rebuilt organ will be released in the coming months. Work is scheduled to begin in late 2027, with completion anticipated in 2029.
Andrew Caskie, Managing Director of Nicholson & Co. Ltd, said “We are pleased to have been commissioned to rebuild the organ of Carlisle Cathedral. The work is due to commence in late 2027 with completion in 2029.”
The Venerable Michael Everitt, Interim Dean of Carlisle, visited the premises of Nicholson & Co. Ltd recently. Michael said “We are delighted to have signed the contract with Nicholsons to renew and reinvigorate the 170-year-old Organ at Carlisle Cathedral.”
“The “Heavenly Voices: Mighty Sound” project will enable the highest quality of music to continue to be shared at the cathedral for many years to come.”
This ambitious project represents a significant investment in the musical and spiritual life of Carlisle Cathedral. The organ is central not only to daily worship, but also to concerts, civic occasions, and the Cathedral’s renowned choral tradition. The project requires a total investment of £2.4 million. The Cathedral is delighted to have already secured £1.8 million, thanks to an exceptionally generous grant from the Benny Walker Charitable Trust and significant support from the Friends of Carlisle Cathedral.
Attention now turns to raising the remaining £600,000. The Cathedral is therefore inviting the support of individuals, trusts, and organisations to help complete this landmark project.
Donations, gifts, pledges, and grant funding of all sizes will play a vital role in bringing the vision to fruition.
Those who contribute will be directly supporting the future of worship, music, and heritage at Carlisle Cathedral, helping to preserve this remarkable instrument and ensure it continues to inspire generations to come.
To find out more or to make a donation, please visit www.carlislecathedral.org.uk/heavenly-voices-mighty-sound. Your support can help bring this once-in-a-generation project to life.
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