SCHOOLCHILDREN from across Hampshire were treated to a day in Winchester Cathedral learning about a historical instrument.

Over 130 pupils from seven schools, including Cheriton, Stanmore, Ropley, Four Marks Primary Schools and Sun Hill Junior School, spent the day learning about the pipe organ.

Led by cathedral organist Andrew Lumsden, activities included a session with Jeremy Sampson of Wooden One Octave Organ for Young Technologists, a singing session, tour of the cathedral, and the chance to play the cathedral’s chamber organ in a workshop with the Royal College of Organists director, Simon Williams.

Colin Harvey, chairman of Winchester and District Association of Organists, said: “It is so rare for children to hear a pipe organ these days and yet it’s the oldest keyboard instrument – in fact the ancient Greeks invented the keyboard for the pipe organ.

“Learning about music and mechanics of the organ helps our school children’s learning in so many fields – music, science, history and art – and it can also be a lot of fun. We hope to run similar events in the future aimed at different age ranges.”

The day saw input from the Royal College of Organists, the Winchester and District Association of Organists, Hampshire Music Service, Foundation Music at the University of Winchester and Winchester Cathedral.