Gloucester Cathedral is one step closer to refurbishing its historic organ, which is over 350 years old, thanks to a £1 million donation.
The Julia Rausing Trust, launched in memory of its eponymous philanthropist, is donating the money to Gloucester Cathedral's In Tune campaign, which aims to restore and renew its iconic organ.
Originally constructed in 1666 by Thomas Harris, Gloucester Cathedral's organ is the only complete 17th century cathedral organ case in the country and is recognised as one of the most prestigious instruments of its kind in the world — with links to illustrious musicians including Ivor Novello, Sir Herbert Brewer and John Stafford Smith, who composed the tune for the American national anthem 'The Star Spangled Banner'.
The organ restoration is central to the cathedral's new musical outreach programme, which aims to share the joy of singing and music with schoolchildren across Gloucestershire to inspire the next generation of musicians, with the donation also helping to fund a scholarship for an emerging organist.
This is the second donation Gloucester Cathedral has received from the late Julia Rausing, after The Julia and Hans Rausing Trust provided support for the conservation of the Cloister in 2022.
Dean of Gloucester, the Very Reverend Andrew Zihni, said: 'We are incredibly grateful for this generous donation in memory of Julia Rausing, whose legacy will echo through the magnificent sound of the new cathedral organ.
'Music has long been a central part of Gloucester Cathedral’s mission and the restored organ will bring joy to our communities as we expand our musical outreach.
'This gift will be a strong reminder for us all of Julia’s passion and generosity. She will be fondly remembered as a significant philanthropic leader, whose legacy will be cherished for generations to come.'
The In Tune campaign aims to raise £3 million by 2026 to restore the organ and revitalise Gloucester Cathedral's musical education programme.
For more information, or to donate, visit gloucestercathedral.org.uk.
