Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand

A Christchurch organ's centennial was marked with a CD launch at St Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Rangi Ruru School.

The 16-track professionally recorded CD, 'Music from St Andrews at Rangi Ruru', features performances by the school's choral groups and instrumentalists.

It marks 100 years since the organ was first played in St Andrews Presbyterian Church in 1902. The historic church and organ were resited to the grounds of Rangi Ruru School in 1987.

The organ now serves both the school and the parish during the week. Parish organist John Dodgshun, who plays the organ on the CD and was involved in editing it, says it was felt that the CD was an appropriate gesture to mark the milestone.

"It was one of the requirements that the students be involved in this as well. We have five tracks involving them in various groups."

John says the recording process involved several sessions over 12 months. He says the completed product was worth the effort.

"We are thrilled about it. The organ is still in its original condition and it has an equally important role for the school, with students learning to play on it."