The Use of Pipe Organs in Anglican Worship

The importance of music in Anglican worship cannot be over-emphasized. Liturgical scholar, Marion Hatchett, Th.D, writes, “From the early days of the Church, music has been integral to the worship of God. Music gives solemnity, beauty, joy, and enthusiasm to the worship of the community. It is an effective evangelism tool. It nourishes and strengthens faith and assists worshipers in expressing and sharing their faith.” ¹

Apart from the voices of the worshippers and choirs, the pipe organ has been the primary instrument for musically expressing and sharing our faith. Its unique breath and depth of sound has the ability to touch us deeply and experience God in ways we never could otherwise. One of the oldest types of instruments still in active use, it also serves as a musical bridge to early medieval liturgical traditions and the present, allowing us to experience our early traditions while at the same time, grow and expand in our understanding of new ways to experience God and reach people.

A mainstay in most Anglican churches, the pipe organ helps set the tone and tempo in the liturgy. Most Anglican hymnody and service music is written with the expectation a pipe organ will be used, which when done well, can create an almost seamless interweaving of scripture, worship, and praise. It also serves as an evangelism tool as there are not many places where people can still hear this kind of music.

This is certainly true at St. Paul’s Cathedral. Many people initially come to the Cathedral for a special service such as a wedding or funeral, or to attend a concert, and then return on Sundays because of the unique sound and quality of the organ. Even if they do not become members, they often return regularly because their worship experience is so greatly enhanced by its use.

1. Marion Hatchett, A Guide to the Practice of Church Music