Hannah Greenfield

Union Chapel is a Grade I listed building, a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture. The unusual octagonally shaped chapel was designed by James Cubitt and dedicated in December 1877. A few weeks later the new organ was inaugurated. Designed and built especially for this space by master organbuilder Henry “Father” Willis, the Chapel’s organ is generally recognised as a world-class instrument and its role at the heart of the Chapel was widely celebrated. However over the years it gradually declined and became unreliable. Fortunately, with the support of a generous grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the organ was fully repaired and restored in 2012-13 by Durham organbuilders Harrison & Harrison, and it now sounds just as magnificent as it did in Victorian times. Union Chapel encourages everyone to come along and hear this wonderful instrument in its historic setting. We hope you enjoy today’s recital, exploring this inspiring example of our local and national musical and architectural heritage.