In 1964, Glenn Coughlan was invited to be foundation organist at Nedlands Methodist Church when its pipe organ, built by Paul Hufner, was installed. The organ was refurbished and extended in 1996 by John Larner and is now being maintained by Graham Devenish of Pipe Organs WA Ltd.
Glenn has seen many changes during his fifty years there: from Nedlands Methodist to Aldersgate to Nedlands Uniting Church with various ministers. The church choir, under Glenn’s leadership, has sung numerous sacred works and, combined with a small orchestra, has led many special services, especially on Christmas Eve each year when hundreds of people have attended and given generous support to the Christmas Bowl Appeal.
A morning tea to celebrate Glenn’s Jubilee Anniversary was held at the church on Sunday 23 February. Previously, the choir had a special supper to thank Glenn for his long and faithful service to the church as organist and choir director.