14/06/2026
A few photographs from a recent tuning visit to the Lewis & Co. organ at St James the Great, Cranham.
Originally built by Lewis & Co. of Brixton in 1894 as Job no. 534, the organ replaced an earlier J.W. Walker instrument. The handsome oak case was designed by the Gloucestershire architect Sidney Gambier Parry as part of the Victorian restoration of the church.
Although modest in size, the organ possesses a particularly charming specification and retains much of the character and craftsmanship for which Lewis instruments are rightly admired.
In 2024, we completed a comprehensive restoration of the organ. The organ was entirely dismantled, restored and reassembled, with work including the action, winding system, console and pipework, together with cleaning, repairs, regulation and tonal finishing throughout.
It was a pleasure to return recently for the organ’s annual tuning. More than 130 years after it was built, this fine Lewis instrument continues to lead worship and support the musical life of the parish, and we look forward to caring for it for many years to come.