Hoxne Organs

[David Drinkell]

I have a friend living in Hoxne (pronounced "Hox'n"), Suffolk, who is interested in acquiring an example of our hosts' Hoxne Organ as a second organ in the fine medieval church there. Forumites may know that the Hoxne was a small extension organ, of which a number were built in the fifties and sixties. It was very compact, with no casework, and could be moved easily. Some of Britten's church operas used such an instrument. There was another model, the 'Denham', which had a simple, Dutch-style case, and there is one of these not far off at Buxhall.

 

Although I knew the rather larger (2m and pedal) Hoxne-type organ which used to be in St. Anne and St. Agnes, Gresham Street, City of London (a remarkably effective little instrument), the only basic Hoxne I have ever seen was in the crypt at Canterbury Cathedral, and that was over forty years ago. It went to a church in Caterham, where it has since been either supplemented or supplanted by a toaster.

 

Any news or leads would be much appreciated.

[Philip J Wells]

I refer you to a previous thread on Benjamin Britten and the Hoxne organ (or something like that) for additional information (including from yourself!). John Mander was asking about the location of one as he had had several enquiries. I take it your friend has contacted Mander Organs and drawn a blank? They used to advertise one for hire but I assume that was sold on many years ago hence JPM's enquiry.

Do I recall one used in temporary mode in in Newcastle RC Cathedral before the installation of the new organ. It was provided, I thought, by the builder who moved the old organ to London?

PJW

 

Edit - memory failure; it was Richard Bower and a 'Chester' organ not a Hoxne. Sorry.

[Contrabombarde]

Photos and story of the rescue of one of these little gems here:

http://www.stmary-caterham.org.uk/lawrence/organ1.htm

 

Earlier thread:

http://mander-organs-forum.invisionzone.com/index.php?/topic/3604-hoxne-organs-and-benjamin-britten/

[David Drinkell]

Yes, that's the ex-Canterbury Cathedral Crypt Hoxne, although the case (for want of a better word) is a later addition. NPOR refers to a later installation of a toaster in this church, although the Hoxne might still be there.