February 19.
Coatbridge had at one time four installations by Willis of Father
Willis organs, most notably the fine four-manual instrument that once
graced the town hall and sadly was destroyed by fire some years ago.
Both Coats Parish Church and Gartsherrie do house instruments
originally built by Willis; however, over the years they have been
rebuilt by other firms, with additions that have removed their
authenticity by various modernisations, etc.
The fourth installation in its original form can be found at Calder
Parish Church, Coatbridge. This instrument has been maintained
throughout by Willis, retaining its original console and mechanical
action and original pipework. To the best of my knowledge the only
modification was to replace the original swell kick pedal with that
which can be found on modern instruments. Incidentally, contrary to
popular belief Father Willis was not a clergyman.
John Y. Burnett,
74 Monks Road,
Airdrie.
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