Our Church Organ

Our organ was built by John R Miller in 1901 and officially opened by A. L. Peace, Mus. Doc. (Oxon) on 29 January 1902. Read the history of this fine instrument and how we are preserving it.

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The History Of Our Organ

Here is a summary of the story so far…

1865

The original two-manual Holt organ was first placed in the church

1901

John R. Miller renovated and enlarged the organ

1902

The organ was officially opened by Mr. A. L. Peace, Mus.Doc. (Oxon)

1929

John R. Miller further renovated and enlarged the organ resulting in what you see today

1972

Rushworth & Dreaper carried out additional renovations

2020

Repairs and replacement of elements of the action and repairs to reed pipes on the Swell manual completed by international company Nicholson & Co. Ltd.

This organ is a testament to the craftsmanship of various builders and restorers over the years, making it a heritage instrument. Its versatility in tonal range allows it to create sounds suitable for contemplation, congregational singing, and even grand, celebratory moods!

Photo Gallery

In 2020, the organ was partly refurbished by Nicholson & Co. Ltd Pipe Organ Builders.

They were commissioned to restore all three charge pneumatic soundboard underactions, and carry out repairs to the collapsing Swell Organ reeds and pedal touchbox.

Here are some pictures from the work.

These parts were taken away for repair…

Nicholson & Co. Ltd working on the parts in the Malvern workshop…

Meet Our Organist

Professor Norman Beedie DRSAM, LRAM, ARCM

Professor Norman Beedie DRSAM, LRAM, ARCM

Norman Beedie is one of the last musicians to be trained by Nadia Boulanger, he taught for her in the International Conservatoire, Fontainebleau and was described by her as "....a real artist, a real musician...."

Trained as a pianist, organist, conductor and flautist, Norman is winner of many awards including BBC Scotland Prize, Greater London Arts Musician. He also studied with Irene Joachim, grand-daughter of Joseph Joachim.

He has conducted in UK (Classic East Symphony Orchestra, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Scottish Ensemble, City of Peterborough Symphony Orchestra) and Ukraine (National Symphony Orchestra in Kiev) and given Masterclasses in Far East, USA and UK.

Norman conducted the first UK performance in London of "St Paul" by Dimitri-Mimis Plessas, the first Ukrainian performance of Violin Concerto by Edmund Rubbra and the premier of Overture "Wivenhoe" by Leigh Odlin.

Norman was Musical Director of Dundee Choral Union for three years and conducted the gala Christmas Concert of the Tayside Health Services and Friends' Choir for ten years, raising money for CLICSargent Cancer Charity.

He teaches Piano, Conducting and Aural Awareness at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

He continues his performing career as pianist, conductor and choir director.

He has written Performing Notes for Edition Peters ABRSM Piano Grade 8, for Guildhall Grade Examinations and "A Life in the Day" on Paolo Fazioli for Sunday Times, London.

He is an External Examiner to the University of Chichester and last but not least, was appointed Organist at the Dundee Congregational Church on <XX Month Year>.

Organ Preservation Fund

Our Organist, Norman Beedie, provides the latest updates about the Organ Restoration Fund.

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Support Our Organ Preservation Fund

We are committed to preserving the rich musical heritage of Dundee Congregational Church. Our historic organ, a cornerstone of our worship and community events, is in need of significant investment to fund preservation work ensuring it continues to inspire and uplift for generations to come. 

A heartfelt thank you for your support.