Harrison & Harrison

Harrison & Harrison is a distinguished British firm of organ builders, renowned for crafting some of the most significant and tonally celebrated pipe organs of the 20th and 21st centuries. Founded in Rochdale in 1861 by Thomas Harrison, the company relocated to Durham under the leadership of his sons, Arthur Harrison and John Harrison, where it established its enduring reputation. The firm is particularly noted for its work on the instruments of many Anglican cathedrals and major concert halls, creating a distinctive orchestral and symphonic style that has profoundly influenced British organ building.

History

The firm's origins trace to Thomas Harrison, who established his workshop in Rochdale, Lancashire. Following his death, his sons Arthur Harrison and John Harrison moved the business to Durham in 1872, a location that remains its home. Under Arthur's artistic direction, the company developed its signature style, securing pivotal contracts at Durham Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. The firm navigated the tonal conservatism of the early 20th century and later adapted to the influences of the Organ reform movement, continuing under subsequent generations of the Harrison family. Key figures in its modern history include Cecil Clutton and the current managing director, Philip Wood.

Notable organ projects

The company's legacy is built upon a series of landmark instruments in Britain's most prestigious venues. Among its most famous cathedral organs are those at Durham Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, St Paul's Cathedral in London, and Canterbury Cathedral. Significant concert hall organs include the instrument at the Royal Festival Hall, a collaboration with Ralph Downes, and the organ for the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester. Other major commissions encompass the organs at King's College, Cambridge, Eton College, and St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh. The firm has also undertaken extensive restoration and rebuilding projects, such as the major work on the Willis organ at the Royal Albert Hall.

Innovations and characteristics

Harrison & Harrison developed a distinctive tonal philosophy, often described as orchestral or symphonic, characterized by a rich foundation of warm, foundational diapasons and smooth, singing string tones. The firm was a pioneer in the development and refinement of the enclosed and expressive Swell division, greatly enhancing dynamic flexibility. Arthur Harrison was instrumental in popularizing the use of high-pressure reed stops, such as the Tuba, and the firm standardized electro-pneumatic action for reliability. Their case designs often feature elegant, understated Gothic or classical styles, as seen at St Paul's Cathedral and Westminster Abbey.

Influence and legacy

The firm's work fundamentally shaped the sound of the large English cathedral and concert organ in the 20th century, setting a benchmark for tonal finish and mechanical reliability. Its instruments have been central to the recorded legacy of renowned organists like George Thalben-Ball, Gillian Weir, and Thomas Trotter. The company's approach influenced later builders, including Mander Organs, and its stewardship of historic instruments, like those by Father Henry Willis and Hill, has been highly respected. Harrison & Harrison remains a preeminent name in organ building, continuing to build, restore, and maintain instruments for major national institutions, thereby preserving a vital part of Britain's musical heritage.

List of selected organs

* Durham Cathedral (Major rebuild and enlargement, 1905–1908) * Westminster Abbey (New organ, 1937) * St Paul's Cathedral (New organ, 1872; major rebuild 1972–1977) * Royal Festival Hall (New organ, 1954; with Ralph Downes) * King's College, Cambridge (Rebuild of the Willis organ, 1934 & 1968) * Canterbury Cathedral (New organ, 1978) * Bridgewater Hall, Manchester (New organ, 1996) * Eton College (New organ, 1965) * St Mary's Cathedral, Edinburgh (New organ, 1998) * Truro Cathedral (Rebuild and enlargement, 1964) * Royal Albert Hall (Major restoration of the Willis organ, 2002–2004)

Category:Organ building companies of the United Kingdom Category:Companies based in County Durham Category:Manufacturing companies established in 1861