Pull Out All the Stops: the Story of the Royal Festival Hall’s Organ
The Royal Festival Organ has spent the last 3 years being restored to its full glory. To celebrate the return home of the “wondrous machine” we have created an interactive exhibition drawing together historic artefacts, curiosities, and magical mechanical machines. Explore the contributions of young poets, musicians, families and schoolchildren who show you the journey of our pipe organ from production to performance.
Find out how this King of Instruments with its 7,866 pipes, bellows and windchambers of many sizes creates its magnificent sound. Marvel at the scale and beauty of this splendid beast. Wonder at the many stories and memories behind the scenes and hear how Ralph Downes the designer, despite the critics of the time, created an instrument which influenced the future of organ music across the globe.