The Organ

The Casavant organ was installed in 1894. At the time, it was the most effective instrument between Montreal and Toronto. The first public concert was held in October of 1894, with 700 people in attendence. The forty voice choir was directed by the organist, Dr Edward Broome. Organ renovations were conducted in 1911 and in 1953. New pipes were installed in 1985 and further maintenance was completed in 1993 by Fred Knapton of Kingston Ontario. At the time of the 1993 renovation, the original 1894 leather bellows were still in use!

 

First Presbyterian Church Handbell Choir, directed by Kathleen Howard, is comprised of members of the congregation and the community who play a three-octave set of cast bronze handbells as well as handchimes.  When pandemic restrictions permit, the Handbell Choir rehearses on Thursdays from 4:30-6:00. 

We are looking for more members for the Handbell Choir!  If this type of music “rings your bell”, please contact Kathleen Howard at kmaryhoward@live.ca.