"It seems difficult to believe that only as recently as the 1970s were there 5 organ retailers here in Croydon, to cater for a fairly popular activity." Recalls David Bevan, a seasoned piano instructor in Selsdon, who once taught 10 students the organ in the early 2000s. But now, Mr Bevan teaches none. His grand home organ now sold to a former student. 

The reason for the decline in organ playing and listening popularity is multi-layered, but the fact we are much less exposed to organ music is a prominent factor. "Many used to attend church and hear the organ, now they don't. In many churches you instead find pop groups performing using drums and guitars," said Mr Bevan. Classical music is less widley publicised on the radio or television, with TV broadcasted concerts limited to the BBC proms and public performances of the Organ reserved to funerals and royal weddings. 

However, organ playing hasn't completely dissipated from schools. In June 2019, Trinity School Croydon purchased an organ, funded by the Trinity Organ Project Campaign. Where internationally-renowned British concert organist and composer, David Briggs, performed at the inaugaral Organ Recital. And currently, around 10 students are learning to play the instrument. 

But not all schools and students can afford to invest in such a costly instrument, with Mr Bevan saying "students of mine who asked local churches whether they could practise using the church organ, were turned down. Even I myself was sent away, an organ instructor." Mr Bevan continues, saying "I was very privileged to be surrounded by friends who played the Organ, and heard it every day at school assembly." But for many this isn't the case, we don't hear this wondrous intrument

Another, equally prominent reason for this decline is the fact less people in modern society identify as religious. Due to the fact organ is so closely linked to religion, its popularity has declined with it. But we must begin to see the organ as much more, something which can exist outside of religion. An intrument which requires dedication, but can provide a rewarding experience.

The Organ has long been associated with the upper-class elite, and Organ playing even more so. But simply listening to Organ music, or classical music, can be so powerful. We are able to break class stereotypes by making this plethora of music available and more accessible to all. "The government certainly is not funding music education in schools enough" notes Mr Bevan with GCSE music entries falling by a staggering 19% since 2011 in England. 

So, in conclusion, we must reframe our view of the organ. We must make it accessible to all. Whether this is through public broadcastings or education on the instrument in all schools. So, I encourage you, go ahead and have a listen to a piece of organ music. Maybe you might enjoy it!