ChurchOrganWorld install a Makin Windermere 3-53D in St Brelades, Jersey

In June 2025 the organist from St Brelades Kevin Dean made a day trip to Church Organ World in Shaw to see Matthew on a Saturday. It was early days, but with so many issues with the pipe organ it was evident that Kevin liked what he heard when he played the for manual Makin Derwent 4-68 D. The true Makin English sound was ideal, but the three manual Windermere 3-53 D that would best suit the needs of the church. 
 
Following the production of a survey report, over the next few months a plan was developed with the able help of Church Warden Frank Walker OBE, and after much discussion and consideration of a plethora of options the order was placed in October. One change in the standard specification that Kevin decided upon was for a Cor Anglais 16’ on the Choir to replace the Vox Humana 8’ in the standard specification. The church also wanted a very dark oak polish on the instrument. 
 
Just prior to the installation Kevin returned to Shaw to play what soon would be his instrument and was astonished at the quality of the instrument ‘out of the box’ and as such unvoiced. He commented to Keith “Your organs are an absolute credit to you and everyone at St Brelade’s can't wait for the installation.” Keith very much looks forward to seeing him again in Jersey and in particular seeing his reaction to the finished instrument. 

John and Steve Bell  had the delight of a few days in Jersey this week installing this lovely organ, in a rich dark oak colour matching the adjacent pews. Whilst they were there they visited several other Copeman Hart and Makin instruments to ensure they are all in tip-top condition. After John and Steve had completed their work, Kevin commented “Thanks again and the guys were brilliant today by the way.” 

In early June, Ian Tracey and Keith will go to St Brelades to complete the voicing of this instrument which, following voicing on a note by note, stop by stop basis will more than likely be the best digital instrument on the island. More on that later!