Ruffatti Organ
Buckfast Abbey is delighted to have the first organ in the United Kingdom by the renowned Italian organ builders Fratelli Ruffatti. The instrument consists of a substantial Quire Organ (four divisions and pedal), located on both sides of the Quire and the upper triforium; and a Grand-Orgue in the West Gallery (two divisions and pedal). The scale of the instrument allows a rich variety of tonal colours, which encourages creativity in the accompaniment of the Monastic Community and Abbey Choir, as well as providing the versatility necessary for a wide range of organ repertoire. An exciting feature of the spatially-separated instruments, is the possibility of playing antiphonally, as well as the ability to play the instruments together (from one, or both, consoles).
A notable feature of the Quire Organ, is an Italian-inspired Positivo division, which includes a number of special effects, including a Nightingale, Zimblestern, Glockenspiel, Drum and Bagpipes; features common in Italian organs of the Renaissance, and unique tools in improvisation and organ repertoire of the period.
The organ features two high pressure en chamade reed stops, a bright Pontifical Trumpet, protruding horizontally from the West Gallery case; and a darker more tuba-like Abbatial Trumpet, located in the triforium.
Two, four-manual consoles control the instruments; one located in the West Gallery, and a movable console, with electronic height adjustment, located in the Quire.
The tonal character of the Grand-Orgue in the West Gallery is inspired by the French romantic tradition, and the scalings and manufacturing practices of Aristide Cavaillé-Coll. The pipes feature the characteristic arched and protruding upper and lower lips. The instrument is contained in two cases and designed to be in harmony with the surrounding architecture, so as not to obscure the stained glass. Since the organ sings directly on the longitudinal axis of the building, it supports congregational singing well, and whilst the instrument can be used independently, its tonal qualities integrate well with the Quire Organ, forming one homogeneous, cohesive instrument.
The instrument is used daily to accompany Mass and Vespers, and features regularly in our concert series.
Below are the organ specifications:
