This Committee exists to advise and assist parishes in selecting a new organ for their church.  The main concern is to ensure that parishes select an adequate instrument for their parish’s use, in accordance with the size of the building, the musical demands of the congregation, and the ability of the parish to raise funds for the project.

Pipe organs are, the first preference, and when they are not possible, electronic instruments may be considered - but only in the rarest of cases should the so-called “Spinet” models of home instruments be considered.  Care should also be taken to see that the instrument provides a “Stop list” of the customary church requirements.  Theatrical additions of percussion, fast fade, rhythm basses, etc., are totally unsuitable for Church use.

The Committee is loathe to recommend particular makes or models, but will give informal guidance to parish committees, and when a suitable model has been agreed upon, and financial plans for purchase are described, will assist the application through the Diocesan Council, which is the actual authorizing body in the matter.

Contact with the Committee should be made through the Chairperson of the Diocesan Doctrine and Worship Committee.

                                                                                                                                Revised July 2003