The Making of the Victorian Organ

This important 1990 book provides a comprehensive survey of English organ building during the most innovative fifty years in its history. Between 1820 and 1870 a number of influences combined to bring about a radical transformation in the design and use of English organs. Thistlethwaite considers most of the major church, cathedral and concert organs built during this period and the work of individual builders is discussed, especially that of William Hill, whose career forms a linking thread to the narrative. The book contains valuable sections dealing with business organisation and workshops, the provision of organs in churches and chapels, and questions of performance practice. It is richly illustrated with photographs and specially drawn diagrams and includes an invaluable appendix of organ specifications. This documentary source book and history is indispensable for all those, professionals or amateurs, who have an interest in the organ.

Reviews & endorsements

'From his lifelong study of the nineteenth-century organ in Britain, Thistlethwaite distils the stuff of drama … [he] joins the tiny band of seminal writers whose works are milestones in the continuing development of the art of the organ.' Peter Hurford

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Product details

• Date Published: February 1991
• format: Hardback
• isbn: 9780521343459
• length: 610 pages

• dimensions: 244 x 170 x 33 mm
• weight: 1.16kg
• contains: 64 b/w illus. 34 tables
• availability: Available