Old organ at Holy Trinity Church in Sunderland receives spectacular new decor in Malta

And the end result is a spectacular setting for the former organ of the Church of the Holy Trinity which now occupies a prominent place in Paola.

The restoration process began soon after and is expected to be completed in mid-January, said project manager David Jenkins.

“There is still a lot to do, but we are putting silver foil on all the front pipes. They will be quite spectacular. “

To celebrate its restoration, a concert is scheduled for Friday February 26 next year in the presence of the Maltese President, the British High Commissioner, the Italian Ambassador and other high officials.

Organist will be Wayne Marshall OBE and invitations will also be sent to members of the Save Our Heritage group who fought to save the piece of history.

David recounted how an “extremely complicated and very detailed” restoration process was carried out but it was a “very interesting project”.

“Historically, with the UK-Malta connection, there was a historical precedent for this. English Romantic organs are much more capable of filling a large space.

Many restorations were necessary on the organ, parts of which dated from the 18th to the 20th century.

David added, “It’s much more cost effective to do the restoration bit by bit before you install it. “

The priest in charge, Father Marc Andre Camilleri, told Echo in May: “We are of course extremely happy that the organ of the Holy Trinity of Sunderland has arrived safely at the basilica after its 2,000 trip. miles.

He added: “Currently our organ builder Giuseppe Mastrovaleria lists all components ready for cleaning and restoration. This process will take several weeks. Once everything is clean and repaired, he will start to reassemble the organ. “

The side parts of the organ are finished and only need front pipes. The main section is being installed in the west gallery of the Basilica.

David added: “It’s good to bring a British organ and restore it.”

The last music played on the organ was Blaenwern which is a Welsh tune used for the hymn Love Divine All Loves Excelling, written by Charles Wesley.

The Maltese community has already pledged that this will be the first thing to be played on the newly restored organ.

Father Marc added: “Having this beautiful historical instrument is a great joy for us. There are many historical links between Malta and the UK and in particular for Paola, as many of its residents worked at the Royal Naval Shipyard, which was located in the parish.

“Even though it was sad for the people of Holy Trinity to lose the organ, I know they are reassured that it was saved from sale as a spare.

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