It was in December 2022 when we were first contacted by Robbie Starling, organist at Hanham Baptist Church in Bristol. Their 2-manual Bradford computing organ had given around 30 years of faithful service. However, time had taken its toll and the instrument had reached a point where repair was no longer economically viable.
A new chapter for Hanham Baptist Church
The existing organ was connected to two large speakers concealed behind chambers fronted with display pipes, giving the visual impression of a traditional pipe installation. Any replacement would need to respect both the appearance and the acoustic character of the space.
Finding the right instrument
Following a visit to our showroom in Bicester and a subsequent trial of suitable instruments, the church chose a new Ensign 35-SV. This model uses the latest Physis Plus modelling technology, offering flexibility, realism and long-term reliability.
The installation was paired with a fresh set of speakers positioned behind the existing pipe façade, along with a separate powered bass unit placed discreetly beside the console. This ensured a full, supportive sound while maintaining the church’s established visual layout.
Voicing the organ to the building
After installation, our colleague Richard Goodall returned to voice the instrument specifically for Hanham’s acoustic.
One of the big advantages of Viscount’s Physis Plus technology is the ability to voice remotely from the console. Using dedicated voicing software connected to a laptop and a separate five-octave keyboard, we are able to stand within the building itself and adjust balance, tone and projection in real time. This approach makes sure the sound is shaped for the congregation’s listening position, not just for the player at the console.
The result is an instrument that feels integrated into the building rather than simply installed within it.
Looking ahead
It has been a pleasure working with Robbie and the team at Hanham Baptist Church as they move to this new instrument. Replacing a long-serving instrument is never a small decision, but the Ensign 35-SV now provides a dependable and musically flexible foundation for services and events for many years to come.
If your church is facing similar decisions about an ageing instrument, we are always happy to offer advice, demonstrations and practical guidance.
I have played the church organ since the age of 11. I am organist at my local catholic church as well as accompanist for a small choral group and keyboard player in a function band. I am committed to ensuring Viscount customers get industry leading service and advice, resulting in the very best organ to suit their needs, be it church, school, home or concert hall.
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