A cacophony is forming over a 114-year-old church instrument described as ”of the finest late-Victorian organs in Scotland”.
The Scottish Federation of Organists (SFO) has criticised the minister of East and Old Parish Church in Forfar over plans to remove its ”unfit” Forster and Andrews piece.
However, the Rev Barbara Ann Sweetin has answered back SFO’s arguments that restoration work would cost far less than initially estimated and the accusation she is responsible for removing the organ.
The Courier has had sight of a report prepared by the SFO’s organ adviser for Tayside and Central Scotland, Andrew McHutchison, praising its setting and workmanship.
He writes: ”It is ” beautifully matched to the building, despite its size and considerable tonal resources, reflecting the skill of the voicers and craftsmen at Messrs Forster and Andrews.
”In short, this instrument is part of our musical heritage and must be preserved, both as an aid for congregational worship and as an essential part of our musical heritage.”
The SFO has now approached the General Trustees of the Church of Scotland and asked them to issue a demand the organ is not to be disturbed.
However, Rev Sweetin said: ”There are so many assumptions and wrong facts (in the letter) that have been given to everyone.
”It says we’ve only got one estimate for the cost of renovations, but we have received two quotes, both from very reputable companies, both of £300,000 to £400,000.
”The first quote came from the man who has been looking after our organ for 25 years and he is very well thought of in Scotland.
”The letter said (former organist and much-admired local music teacher) Willie Bernard left a substantial amount of money to repair the organ.
”First off, he never left any money to the church, especially not for the organ – he helped the church members and community raise funds to set aside for its upkeep.”
While conceding it is now in need of a major overhaul Mr McHutchison’s report adds all the pipework is undamaged and ”fit for another century of service”.
The SFO letter states Lottery funding could be used for the lion’s share of its own restoration estimate – £150,000.
Rev Sweetin added: ”If there was money to be given out for most of the £300,000, I would prefer to use it to employ an associate minister, a youth worker and a parish nurse – that would pay their salaries for over three years.
”Over five years ago, East and Old Parish Church faced closure. What would have happened to the organ if the church had closed down at that point?
”No one and especially not this organisation came to help our church at that time.”