The Institute of British Organ Building

The ‘silly season’ is upon us, when organ tuners all over the world frantically run from one church to the next, coaxing reeds into tune and tweaking actions into shape. I would like to say that it feels strange to be writing about Christmas in October, but for organ builders and church musicians this is very much the norm. Forward planning: scheduling those all-important pre-carol service tunings, ensuring the clean and overhaul is completed, and making sure everything gleams in time for the festive season: these are the things we do year on year, like clockwork.

I am sure that most of us have had the frustration of arriving at a church, only to be told that the school have a carol service for the next two hours. And yes ... most of us are working flat out, often to the point of exhaustion. But in many ways, I cannot help but think that this is the culmination of our craft. The hours spent perfecting intricate woodwork, rounding-out and decorating case pipes, and resetting the bearings for the umpteenth time all pull together to provide our clients with a fabulous visual, tactile, and aural experience. When the candlelight dances across the lovingly restored organ, and the congregation raises their voices in the triumphant seventh verse of O come, all ye faithful, it reminds us exactly why we do what we do.

Birmingham Weekend
Another thing that runs like clockwork is the IBO events diary, ably administrated by Carol Levey. Our most recent weekend meeting in Birmingham took in the delights of the University, the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, and the Town Hall. A huge vote of thanks to all of those involved and to our after dinner speaker, Andrew McCrea, who graciously stepped in at short notice. Special thanks also need to go to Carol Levey. Carol works immensely hard for the IBO each week; she really has her finger on the pulse, and knows exactly what needs doing and when. The Birmingham weekend was not an easy one to organise (venues, catering, and personnel were all a real challenge) and none of it would have happened without the Carol’s dedication. It was great to see close to fifty members there for the dinner, and to have the opportunity to speak to so many like-minded colleagues. The openness, honesty, and willingness to share experiences truly embody the spirit of the IBO. It is this sense of community that remains our greatest strength–the thing that will carry our craft through the challenges ahead. Plans are already taking shape for our 2026 events calendar, with further details and training opportunities to be announced soon.

Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme On the subject of challenges, it is encouraging to hear that none of our members have yet been negatively affected by the changes to the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme. This is, of course, great news! As I mentioned in our last newsletter, if you do experience any issues or impacts from the revised scheme, please let us know. Your feedback is vital for us to be able to effectively advocate on your behalf; please drop Carol a line at: administrator@ibo.co.uk

Young Organ Builders In this edition of our newsletter we are delighted to include an article from Andrew Fiddes and Harry Lane, the leaders of our Young Organ Builders (YOBS) group. A huge thank you to Andrew and Harry for their energy and vision, and for formalising a manifesto that helps guide this vital work. Engaging with the next generation of organ builders is crucial–not just for the future of the IBO, but for the survival of the craft itself. Given that organ building is a red-listed endangered craft, it has been particularly pleasing to see how many new YOBS are coming through the ranks. If we, as an organisation, continue to support and nurture them, we’ll be safeguarding the tradition of high-quality organ building in Britain for generations to come. If you are a young organ builder, or new to the trade, please get in touch with Andrew and Harry to join the YOBS. Email: yobs@ibo.co.uk

IBO Website and iboDiscuss The eagle-eyed amongst you may have noticed that, over the last few years, the functionality of the IBO website has been slowly diminishing. This is not by choice. The website is now rather old and needs to be completely rebuilt from the ground up. Of course, we could simply bolt all the current information onto a new chassis and be done with it–but this is our chance to build something fit for the 21st century: a website that not only meets members’ needs but also projects a vibrant, outward-facing image of the IBO to the wider world.

In order to do this properly, we would really value your input. Please take a look at the current website and tell us:
• What do you like or dislike?
• What is missing that we should now be offering?
• What is outdated or no longer useful?
And, if you have web or digital experience and would like to get involved, we would love your help! Please send your feedback and ideas to administrator@ibo.co.uk

Meanwhile, our new iboDiscuss forum is now fully operational. We’re seeing a steady trickle of posts, and engagement is gradually growing. If you have a topic or question that could spark conversation, please log in and share it. Every new post helps to build momentum and reminds members that this is a valuable community resource.

The IBO also uses iboDiscuss for official announcements, so it’s the best place to stay up-to-date. If you have staff members who would also like to join, just send their names and email address to Carol, and she will add them to the forum.

In closing I once knew a choirboy who was given the great honour of singing the opening verse of Once in Royal David’s City in the Christmas carol service. He was terribly nervous—prone to going a little flat—and desperate to get it right. When his big moment finally came with the adrenaline, nerves, and his fear of going flat, he ended up singing the entire verse almost a tone sharp. At the end of the service, his mother approached the organist and asked, in all seriousness, “Why did you play it in a different key?!” And with that, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year. May your pipes stay in tune, your reeds behave themselves, and your work continue to bring joy to those who hear it.