The first priority of the
Music Endowment Fund is the replacement of the pipe organ.Christ Church Cathedral was founded in 1865 and is the mother church of the Diocese of British Columbia. The present stone structure is the third building occupied by this historic congregation. It was consecrated in 1929. From the earliest days music has been an essential part of our worship. The Cathedral continues to play a pre-eminent role in setting the highest standards of worship, music and outreach.
Christ Church Cathedral is well known as a centre for the arts and culture in the City of Victoria The arts have many forms of expression here: a mighty peal of bells, choral and orchestral performances as well as stained glass windows and floral arrangements. This splendid structure is a natural gathering place for the whole community.
The musical tradition of the Cathedral is unique and we are proud of our association with such notable civic organizations as the CapriCCio Vocal Ensemble, the Victoria Choral Society, the Victoria Operatic Society and the Victoria Symphony Orchestra. Over the years, the Cathedral has played host to many world class musicians and played an important role in launching musical careers.
Under the guidance of our celebrated Director of Music, Michael Gormley, and through performances of sacred and secular choirs, its bellringers and instrumental groups, this tradition continues.
The first priority of the
Music Endowment Fund is the replacement of the pipe organ.
Built by J.W. Walker & Sons of London, England in 1872, this instrument has been augmented, enlarged and rebuilt three times. In 1979 it was moved to the West Gallery.
This old organ is rapidly reaching the end of its useful life. It has been in constant use for over 120 years. The organ is comprised of over 3,000 pipes and thousands of electrical and pneumatic moving parts. These vital components are now totally unreliable and uneconomical to repair.
Some sections of the organ do not function at all. The entire instrument could fail at any time and this presents a serious liability to the music ministry.