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Grant Edwards, Portland,
Oregon

Episcopal Church of the
Nativity, Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia

 


From the builder

The road from this organ's conception to its completion was
long, complicated, and a bit adventurous. It began as every organist's dream of
having a lovely pipe organ at home. Having worked at Bond Organbuilders since
June 1993, where I am now in my tenth year as a craftsman, I felt confident
enough by the fall of 1995 to begin design and construction on my own
instrument. This would have been impossible if not for the generosity and
patience of Richard and Roberta Bond and the rest of the crew, as the organ's
components would gradually take up a large portion of shop space--more space,
in fact, than I had initially expected. After constructing the coupler chassis,
I felt it had come at far too much cost to my free time for the 10 stops
originally planned. Soon, a solo flute, 16' reed, and other goodies had found
their way onto the drawing-board.

Temporary lodging

After three long years of work on evenings and weekends, the
organ was eventually complete, albeit homeless. And my colleagues desperately
needed their set-up room for another project. The First Congregational Church
(UCC) in downtown Portland, where I have been organist since 1995, was more
than happy to provide room and board for the new organ in their downstairs
chapel. Because of the small size of the chapel, the organ had to be voiced as
"dolce" as possible. A large panel of wood at the bottom of the swell
opening also served intentionally to block any direct sound egress from the
mouths of the interior pipes. These measures successfully bottled up the
organ's potency, and it was well received by the congregation and community.

From the Northwest to the Southeast

Having enlisted the Organ Clearing House to help find a buyer,
I received inquiries from around the country. In February of 2001, I received a
call from Bruce Fowkes, who said that the Episcopal Church of the Nativity was
interested in my Opus One, which they had become aware of via the OCH's web
site. The church subsequently invited me to visit their sanctuary, to determine
if it would indeed work well in their space. After measuring the available
area, we found that the organ would fit exactly as if it were meant for the
space. In addition, the church planned to remove the chancel carpeting and
install ceramic flooring throughout. The organ committee soon paid a visit to
Portland to see and hear the organ for themselves, and in June, 2001 a contract
was signed for installation in October. A few final details, including voicing
of the new Mixture pipes, were completed by the beginning of February, and
parish organist John Wigal played the inaugural recital on April 21, 2002.

Nips and tucks

John Wigal and the church's organ committee readily agreed
to a short list of modifications which we mutually felt to be desirable in the
given situation. The primary visual issue involved placement of the largest
open 8' and stopped 16' pipes, which were originally racked informally along
both sides of the case. The future corner location of the organ would obscure
the left side of the case while exposing the right side. The solution was to
create a side display of new flamed copper façade pipes, notes 1-9 of
the 8' Principal which had been too large for the swell box. The bottom octave
of the 16' could easily be stashed against the wall behind the organ. The new
display basses allowed the opportunity to rescale the 8' Principal three notes
larger (and the 4' Octave one note larger), for a fuller tone given the room's
capacity. The primary tonal change was addition of a new Mixture stop. So that
all the enclosed pipes might also be allowed to speak directly into the room,
the large "muting" board was removed from the shade frame and the
swell shades extended downward, creating an opening well below the level of the
pipe mouths.

Small is beautiful

Since this organ had been designed as a small yet tonally
complete chamber instrument, and since its eventual location remained a mystery,
it was kept as compact as possible. It measures only 91/2 feet tall at its
crown and 8 feet wide in the front, the compromise being that it is somewhat
deeper than might be expected. Many labor-intensive methods were employed to
save space in the interior, such as the hanging of bass pipes lengthwise along
the ceiling of the swell box. Tubular-pneumatic action is used for the largest
pipes of the 8' reed (which behave badly when tubed off) and 16' Sub Bass, thus
also reducing key pluck and wind consumption. An almost ridiculous number of
pipes (137) are tubed off the main windchest for the sake of spatial economy,
and the 16' pedal reed is planted behind the organ on its own valve box. A
single slider windchest of 112 note channels contains alternating pallets for
both manuals side by side, the pedal channels being divided out of the front
halves of the Upper Manual channels. The suspended manual key action is simply
splayed chromatically by means of squares towards the back of the organ. A
third arm on each of the pedal coupler rollers directly pulls open the pedal
pallets in the front of the windchest, requiring many vertical trackers to pass
through both manual keyboards.

A tonal world where none exclude

I am a great admirer of historic instruments of diverse
times and places, and find many modern instruments modeled after these examples
to be a wonder to the eye as well as the ear. I have attempted to create a kind
of "melting pot" in which echoes of many past tonal ideas may be
perceived: the orchestral richness of the French Romanic, the colorful
brightness of the German Baroque, the refined simplicity of 19th-century
America, and even a bit of the pomp and bombast of Britain. I hope to create an
ensemble of voices which blend into one full, cohesive chorus while at the same
time retaining as much color and personality in each individual voice. I want
to build organs capable of performing the widest variety of music effectively
and convincingly, if not with that ever-elusive spirit of "historical purity."

When my Opus One was newly complete, I billed it as an
"American Classic Chamber Organ," by virtue of its attempt to be the
most musically flexible instrument possible within a limited number of tonal
resources. It has a refreshing, modern sound that is nevertheless strongly
reminiscent of 19th-century American instruments. I attempted to overcome some
shortcomings in this style that I otherwise admire by including upperwork and
colorful mutations that are rather brighter than in a typical 1883 Hook &
Hastings.

A firm foundation

The organ includes many features which I have found to be
advantageous in a small instrument, such as placing the 8' Principal inside the
single expression box rather than in the façade. Indeed, having almost
all the organ's pipes behind swell shutters allows a degree of control
especially useful for accompaniment purposes. The "full" complement
of unison stops may be somewhat unusual for modern instruments of this size,
and this is even more true of a manual Sub Bass. Despite appearances, it is the
mid-range of this 16' stopped rank that is displayed in the front of the case
instead of the Principal. When playing on full organ, the 16' does not
prominently stand out if the swell box is closed, since the shutters mute far more
treble frequencies than bass. Not only does the 16' lend a satisfying weight to
the full ensemble, but it is specifically called for in a great variety of
literature.

Features create flexibility

Another way in which I expanded the utility of the organ's
limited resources is through the duplexing of several stops, a practice that is
becoming almost commonplace in mechanical-action organs. Four stops of the
Lower Manual are available in the Pedal via a second position in the
corresponding drawknobs, if the organist intentionally pulls up and out.
Notches locate the usual first positions, into which the stop shanks fall
naturally with the aid of a spring. As originally built, the two manuals also
shared a 22/3' Quinte and a 2' Doublet, which together served as a sort of
ersatz Mixture. When the Mixture was added to the Lower Manual, its 2' pitch
was made available as a half-draw stop, rendering a shared 2' redundant. The
Quinte's duplexing was left intact, however, but its pipes were revoiced as a
fluty Nazard to better mate with the Tierce. The Upper Manual was given a new
2' Recorder where the principal-scaled Doublet had been, thus completing a full
consort of six flutes. These are varied in character, and include an open wood
Descant Flute (Melodia) singing out from behind the center façade pipes.
Since I was compelled to co-opt its drawknob for the Mixture addition, the 16'
Pedal Bassoon is now controlled solely by a hitch-down foot lever, convenient
for hands-free activation. The Hautboy functions well as a chorus reed and can
produce a Trumpet-like solo voice when assisted by "helper stops."
The mutation stops blend seamlessly, forming reed-like effects, and the gentle
Viola has been found to be especially popular with listeners.

Heavenly casework

The organ's casework is made of quarter-sawn white oak
finished with hand-rubbed tung oil and varnish. Metal façade pipes are
of flamed copper. Wood façade pipes, in a design uniquely created for
this organ, feature fronts of lacewood with ebony trim and oak mouthpieces
carved in Roman arch form. The lacewood and ebony detailing is repeated in the
key-cheeks and music desk. Pipe shades depict stars, moons, and comets. Stars
surrounding the Chi Rho-emblazoned sun represent the nine planets, in their
relative sizes and exaggerated colors. Above the keydesk, a violet inscription
reads "Earth & All Stars Sing."

Summary

I am deeply satisfied with the
outcome of this, my first organbuilding endeavor. My subsequent trips to
Chattanooga and Fort Oglethorpe since the installation never cease to uplift my
spirits, with credit due as much to the wonderful friends I have met there as
to the success of the new organ. I am especially grateful to the members of the
Church of the Nativity, who took a leap of faith in commissioning a major work
of art from an unknown builder, and also to John Wigal for bringing the
instrument so skillfully to life through music.

--Grant Edwards

 

Acknowledgments: Matthew
Bellochio, installation and tonal finishing assistant; Michael Wheeler,
installation assistant; Robert Hubatch, execution of central sun carving
(replacement of vanished original); Ralph Richards, Bruce Fowkes & Co.,
supportive local organ builders.

Very special thanks to Richard
and Roberta Bond and the entire Bond staff for tireless encouragement, advice,
and a pretty darn enviable organ building shop.

From the organist

In October of 2000 I began as
interim organist/choirmaster for the Episcopal Church of the Nativity in Fort
Oglethorpe, Georgia. The congregation is a relatively young one, having built
its nave in the early 1960s. The church was using a four-rank unit organ, over
sixty years old and in very bad need of repair. The organ was first housed in
the Chattanooga Funeral Home, then made an interim stop before settling at Nativity.
A 4' Octave replaced a soft string rank when the organ was installed in the
church to assist in hymn playing. The instrument, all in one unit, except for
the blower and reservoir, was placed at a 45-degree angle on the floor level of
the nave behind and to the outside of the pulpit. This had been accomplished by
removing a section of the elevated choir floor. Consequently, the organ was 18
inches lower than all of the surrounding floor and was partially hidden from
the congregation by a solid wall about 5 feet in height. The blower and
reservoir, intended for installation in another room, had been installed in the
corner behind the organ, making them very noisy all the time.

The rector and vestry were aware
of the poor state of the instrument prior to my arrival, but had not been able
create a plan or the funding to deal with the situation. The possibility of
replacing the organ was significantly due to the generosity of Arthur Yates,
who left an endowment to the congregation upon his death. The organ and its
accompanying remodeling in the nave were financed entirely through the Nativity
Endowment Fund. In early 2001 after some educational discussions with the
vestry, a committee was formed to investigate the replacement of the
instrument. Because the Church of the Nativity is a small congregation seating
only 140 in the nave, we began a search for a small unit-style instrument.
During this investigation period, a local organ builder noted the Grant Edwards
organ on the Organ Clearinghouse website and contacted me having felt the
instrument was appropriate for our space. Subsequent phone calls with John
Bishop and Grant Edwards led to a visit to our church by Mr. Edwards and a
return visit by three members of our committee to Portland in May of 2001. The committee
was immediately struck with the beauty and craftsmanship of the casework. The
sound of the instrument, particularly of the varied flutes and the 8'
Principal, led the committee to quickly recommend the purchase of the organ
with some modifications agreed on by both committee and builder.

The vestry then charged the
organ committee to institute changes which would enhance the worship space and
the organ installation. This allowed for the removal of carpeting in the aisle
and the choir space. The pews were removed and the entire floor area was
covered with 18" ceramic tile. In order to allow for better egress of
sound, the raised floor was returned under the organ and the organ was
installed on the long axis of the nave. The previous solid railings were
replaced with a wrought iron and oak railing. New lighting around the choir and
organ was installed as well as increased general lighting in the entire nave.

It is very easy to see that the
organ has exceeded everyone's expectations. The church's worship has been
enhanced, hymn singing has been markedly improved, and many in the community
have been welcomed into the church for the first time. The Church of the
Nativity has kept its endowment funds for use on special projects only. This
has not only allowed for the completion of the organ, but also for many mission
projects, both local and international. The leadership of this small church and
the craftsmanship and work of Grant Edwards deserve recognition and praise.

John E. Wigal

Organist/Choirmaster

Grant Edwards, Portland, Oregon, Opus 1

Episcopal Church of the
Nativity, Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia

16 ranks, 810 pipes

Mechanical key and stop action,
two manuals and pedal (56/30), balanced expression pedal, hitch-down couplers

Lower Manual

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Sub
Bass

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Chimney
Flute

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Descant
Flute (middle C)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave

                  22/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Nazard (from
Upper Manual)

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Fifteenth
&

                                    Mixture
III (double-draw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Hautboy

Upper Manual

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Stopped
Wood

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Open
Flute

                  22/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Nazard

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Recorder

                  13/5
style='mso-tab-count:1'>      
Tierce

                                    Tremulant
(affects entire organ)

Pedal

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Sub
Bass (from Lower Manual)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal
(from Lower Manual)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave
(from Lower Manual)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bassoon

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Hautboy
(from Lower Manual)

 

                                    Lower
Manual to Pedal

                                    Upper
Manual to Pedal

                                    Manual
Coupler

 

Fenris Pipe Organ
style='font-weight:normal'>, Kilkenny, Minnesota, has built a new organ for
Ascension Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, Minnesota, where music director Eileen
Nelson Ness oversees a music program with adult, community, and youth choirs.
The new organ replaces an electronic simulator, and was part of a larger
construction project that consisted of bumping out the chancel to provide choir
space on one side and an organ chamber on the other. The two-manual and pedal
organ comprises 12 ranks, with provision for five more.

Our challenge, as organbuilders,
was to build a new instrument for an unconventionally shaped room with carpet
and padded pews. It also had to match the room and reuse pipework and some
components from an instrument the church had previously purchased as "seed."

The principal chorus is new,
façade pipes are from the earlier instrument. Casework and console are
new, made of red oak, with an oversized bench for teaching. The organ is
located in a pit; slab on frost footing with double 5/8 sheetrock taped and painted,
sloped ceiling. Chest action is electro-mechanical, with electro-pneumatic for
the 16' Subbass; switching system is Peterson. Wind pressure is 31⁄2
inches. Stoplist, scaling and voicing are by Bob Rayburn; design and
cabinetwork by Wes Remmey.

—Wes Remmey

Fenris Pipe Organ, Inc.

 

GREAT

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Rohr
Gedackt

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Holzgedackt
(Sw)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Rohr
Flute (ext)

                  22⁄3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Quint (Sw)

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Fifteenth
(ext)

                  IV
style='mso-tab-count:1'>           
Mixture
(wired, prep)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trumpet

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Clarion
(ext)

                                    Gt/Gt
4

                                    Sw/Gt
16-8-4

SWELL

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Lieblich
Gedackt (ext)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Holzgedackt

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Voix
Celeste (T.C.)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gedackt
(ext)

                  22⁄3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Nazard (T.C.)

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave
(ext)

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Block
Flute (ext)

                  13⁄5'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Tierce (wired,
prep)

                  11⁄3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Quint (ext)

                  IV
style='mso-tab-count:1'>           
Mixture
(wired, prep)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bassoon
(T.C., ext)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Oboe

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Schalmei
(ext)

                                    Sw/Sw
16-4

                                    Tremolo

PEDAL

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Subbass

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Lieblich
Gedackt (Sw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Bourdon
(Sw)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Choral
Bass (ext)

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave
(ext)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Posaune
(prep)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trumpet
(Gt)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Oboe
(Sw)

                                    Gt/Ped

                                    Sw/Ped

 

Lauck Pipe Organ Company
style='font-weight:normal'>, Otsego, Michigan, has built a new organ for St.
Peter's Cathedral, Marquette, Michigan. Our opus 54 is a three-manual organ
which replaces a small two-manual instrument. Several ranks of pipes from the
previous organ were incorporated into the new instrument. The painted casework
recapitulates the Romanesque architecture of the building. The tin
façade pipes are from the Great 8' Montre, Great 8' Flûte
Harmonique and, Pedal 8' Montre.

Space was at a premium as the
gallery is not large and we were not permitted to obstruct the windows. The
left case contains the Great with Choir above while the right case contains the
Pedal with Swell above.

St. Peter's Cathedral is an old
and historic building constructed of local brown sandstone. The huge interior,
hard surfaces, and ceramic tile floor provide excellent acoustics. With over 5
seconds of reverberation, a high gallery and long nave, this room is an
organbuilder's dream. The organ is generously scaled and voiced on moderate
wind pressures ranging from 3 to 4 inches, with the Swell reeds (parallel domed
shallots) on 5 inches, and the Great Trompette (tapered shallots) on 8 inches.
The voicing is transparent and not forced.

--James Lauck

Lauck Pipe Organ Company

 

GREAT

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bourdon
(ext)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Montre

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flûte
à Cheminée

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flûte
Harmonique (49 pipes)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Prestant

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flûte
Octaviante (ext Fl Harm)

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Doublette

                  IV
style='mso-tab-count:1'>           
Fourniture

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette
de Fête

                                    Gt/Gt
4

                                    Sw/Gt
16-8-4

                                    Ch/Gt
16-8-4

SWELL

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Bourdon

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viole
d'Gambe

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Voix
Céleste (49 pipes)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Prestant

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flûte
Harmonique

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flûte
Ouverte (ext)

                  IV
style='mso-tab-count:1'>           
Plein
Jeu

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Basson

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Hautbois
(ext)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Clairon
(ext)

                                    Tremulant

                                    Sw/Sw
16-UO-4

CHOIR

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flûte
Couverte

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola
Céleste (49 pipes)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Prestant

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flûte
à Fuseau

                  22/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Nazard

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Doublette
(ext)

                  13/5'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Tierce

                  11/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Larigot (ext)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Cromorne

                                    Tremulant

                                    Ch/Ch
16-UO-4

                                    Sw/Ch
16-8-4

PEDAL

                  32'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Contrebourdon
(resultant)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Contrebasse

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Soubasse

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bourdon
(Gt)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Montre
(ext)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Bourdon
(ext Soubasse)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flûte
à Cheminée (Gt)

                  51/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Quinte (from 16'
Bourdon)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Prestant
(ext)

                  II
style='mso-tab-count:1'>             
Fourniture

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bombarde
(ext Gt)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Basson
(Sw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette
(Gt)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Clairon
(Gt)

                                    Gt/Ped
8-4

                                    Sw/Ped
8-4

                                    Ch/Ped
8-4

 

J. Zamberlan & Co
style='font-weight:normal'>., Wintersville, Ohio, has built a new organ for St.
Andrew's Episcopal Church, Greencastle, Indiana. The firm's Opus 1 comprises 18
stops, 23 ranks, over two manuals and pedal. Three normal couplers, Gt/Ped,
Sw/Ped and Sw/Gt, are controlled by hitchdown pedals. There is one general
tremulant affecting the entire organ. A cymbelstern is installed on top of the
center tower. Pedal lights are wired into the blower switch. Great at impost
level, Swell in the bottom rear, Pedal above that (behind Great). The key action
is entirely mechanical, as is the stop action, except for the two pedal stops
which are activated by slider solenoids. Casework of red oak, with hinged
panels allowing easy access into most parts of the instrument. Keydesk area in
butternut; keyboard naturals of bone with sharps of ebony; pedal keys rock
maple, sharps ebony-capped; stopknobs, hitchdown pedals, etc. of bocote;
stopknob disks of certified legal ivory. Total number of pipes is 1,182. Old
pipes extensively repaired, including new languids for several stops; slide
tuners, temperament is Kellner. Manual/pedal compass 58/30.

 

GREAT

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Open
Diapason (new, façade, 28%)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Stopped
Diapason*

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave*

                  22/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Twelfth*

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Fifteenth*

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Cornet
IV (new, from c13-c49, 28%)

                  11/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Mixture III-IV (new,
28%)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trumpet
(new, zinc & 52% resonators)

SWELL (enclosed)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Geigen
Diapason+ (1-12, stp fl)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Stopped
Flute+ (1-6 new, cypress)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Voix
Céleste*

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal+

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flute+

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flautino+

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bassoon
(new, 52% resonators)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Hautboy
(new, 52% resonators)

PEDAL (flat pedalboard)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bourdon
(new, soft maple)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Trombone
(new, zinc & 28% resonators)

* E. & G.G. Hook, 1870

+ Stevens & Jewett, 1856

Related Content

New Organs

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Cover

Lauck Pipe Organ Company, Otsego, Michigan

Trinity Christian College, Palos Heights,
Illinois

Trinity Christian College is a four-year liberal arts college founded in
1959 and located in Palos Heights, Illinois, a suburb 25 miles southwest of
Chicago. It is dedicated to providing students with a quality higher education
in the Reformed Christian tradition. The college has grown extensively in
recent years with many new buildings erected. In 2001, the college dedicated a
new 1,200-seat auditorium: The Martin and Janet Ozinga Chapel. The chapel is
also the home of the college's music department with faculty offices, rehearsal
rooms, a recital hall, a music computer lab, and practice rooms. An organ for
the auditorium was envisioned from the building's conception.

Under the chairmanship of music department chair Helen Van Wyck, a committee
was formed to choose a builder for the organ. Paula Pugh Romanaux was selected
as the consultant to work with the committee. After visiting several of our organs,
Lauck Pipe Organ Company was chosen to build the organ. Working with the
builder, the committee decided that the instrument would be located at the back
of the stage and would occupy the central position. The committee felt that an
organ with a detached console would prove more flexible, especially when used
with orchestra and to accompany small ensembles.

Several designs for the organ case were prepared ranging from traditional to
contemporary, the latter being chosen. The proportions of the case are generous
in order to fill the expansive rear wall of the stage area. The façade
consists of the 16' Principal, 8' Pedal Octave and the 8' Great Diapason,
with  pipes of polished tin. The
casework is arranged so that the Pedal division occupies the center and two
outer towers. Between the left and center tower is the Great Principal chorus
with the Choir division above. Between the right and center towers are the
Great flutes and reed with the Swell division above. A shallow case with
expression shades capable of a full range of motion allow for excellent egress
of sound. The emblem at the top of the center tower is the college's logo done
in relief and gilded.

Over the past 30 years, we have built many French-terraced consoles with
curved terraces, but Marilyn Mulder, the school's organ instructor, suggested a
console based on a design she saw at Chicago's Orchestra Hall. From her
photograph, we designed and built a console with straight, oblique terraces.
The woodwork is of cherry to match other furnishings in the chapel. The
terraces, keycheeks, manual and pedal sharps, and drawknobs are all of
rosewood. The manual naturals are of bone. Peterson supplied the MIDI system
and combination action. Lauck manufactured the coupler and relay systems, as
well as the electric expression servos.

The room, alas, suffers from insufficient reflection of sound. As we worked
with the acoustician and architect, the organ committee and I realized we would
not be able to have all of our requests granted; the acoustician was more
interested in absorbing rather than reflecting sound. The architect and
building committee did agree that the expansive drywall ceiling would be well
supported and made up of a double layer glued together so as to not absorb the
lower frequencies. Preliminary acoustical tests of the room proved that we
needed a lot of sound to fill it. The organ had to be scaled very boldly, with
variable scales and higher cut-ups being freely employed. In addition, generous
wind pressures, especially in the reeds, would be used. Our tonal concept was
to establish well-developed Principal choruses in each division, colorful and
contrasting flute choruses, and chorus reeds that bind together well. This goal
was achieved and supplemented by colorful solo reeds and strings with character
and variety.

The Great is based on a 16' Principal. The 8' extension of the Principal can
be used as a second Diapason and creates a rich fond d'orgue with the open and
stopped flutes. Mutations provide for a Great Principal Cornet. To ensure a
bold, full pedal, the 16' Diapason is really a 16' open wood located in the
central tower of the case. The Great 16' Principal is also available in the
Pedal for use in lighter textures, while the 8' Octave and 4' Choralbass are
independent. The Trumpet-en-Chamade is made of tin and is voiced on 10 inches
of wind pressure using domed parallel shallots. The Pedal Trombone unit is also
voiced with domed parallel shallots on 8 inches of wind pressure. The Swell
reeds are on 6 inches of wind with the Bassoon/Oboe having tapered shallots and
the Trumpet/Clarion parallel shallots. The Swell Gamba and Gamba Celeste are
slotted with rollers throughout. It is a well-developed string tone with good
strength and carrying power; however, the expression boxes and shades are
heavily built and can make the strings evaporate when desired. The Swell also
has a Flute Celeste, which is built as a Ludwigtone; basically, two wood pipes
built with a common middle wall on one foot. The Choir Viola and Viola Celeste
are of about equal power to the Swell strings but are not slotted and are of a
broader tone quality. They are voiced to work together perfectly yet retain
their individual colors.

The Lauck employees that built Opus 55 include: Craig Manor, console design
and construction, wood pipes; Ken Reed, pipemaker, office manager; Ben Aldrich,
design, windchests, foreman; Bob Dykstra, windchests, wood pipes, casework;
Dick Slider, windchests, lower casework; Dan Staley, circuit board
manufacturing, wiring; Jim Lauck, design, voicing, tonal finishing; Jonathan
Tuuk; tonal finishing.

--Jim Lauck

Lauck Opus 55, 2002

3 manuals, 46 ranks, electric action

GREAT

16' Principal  (61 pipes)

8' Diapason (61 pipes)

8' Principal (12 pipes)

8' Rohrflute (61 pipes)

8' Flute Harmonique (61 pipes)

4' Octave (61 pipes)

4' Principal (12 pipes)

4' Flute Octaviante (12 pipes)

22/3' Quint (61 pipes)

2' Superoctave (61 pipes)

13/5' Tierce (61 pipes)

IV Fourniture (244 pipes)

8' Trumpet (61 pipes)

8' Trumpet-en-Chamade (61 pipes)

                        Great
to Great 4

                        Swell
to Great 16-8-4

                        Choir
to Great 16-8-4

                        Zimbelstern

SWELL

16'  Bourdon (12 pipes)

8' Bourdon (61 pipes)

8' Gamba (61 pipes)

8' Gamba Celeste (49 pipes)

8' Flute Celeste (49 pipes)

4' Principal (61 pipes)

4' Spitzflute (61 pipes)

2' Blockflute (12 pipes)

V Mixture (293 pipes)

16' Bassoon (61 pipes)

8' Trumpet (61 pipes)

8' Oboe (12 pipes)

4' Clarion (12 pipes)

Tremulant

Swell to Swell 16-UO-4

CHOIR

8' Gedeckt (61 pipes)

8' Viola  (61 pipes)

8' Viola Celeste (49 pipes)

4' Principal (61 pipes)

4' Koppelflute (61 pipes)

22/3' Nazard (61 pipes)

2' Octave (61 pipes)

2' Flautino (12 pipes)

13/5' Tierce (61 pipes)

11/3' Larigot (5 pipes)

III Scharff (183 pipes)

8' Cromorne (61 pipes)

8' Trumpet-en-Chamade (Gt)

Tremulant

Choir to Choir 16-UO-4

Swell to Choir 16-8-4       

PEDAL

32' Sub Bourdon (electronic ext)

16' Diapason (open wood) (32 pipes)

16' Principal (Great)

16' Subbass (32 pipes)

16' Bourdon (Swell)

8' Octave  (32 pipes)

8' Principal (Great)

8' Bass Flute (12 pipes)

4' Choralbass  (32 pipes)

II Rauschquint (64 pipes)

II Mixture  (24 pipes)

32' Contra Bassoon (electronic ext)

16' Trombone (32 pipes)

16' Bassoon (Swell)

8' Trumpet (12 pipes)

4' Clarion (12 pipes)

4' Cromorne (Choir)

Great to Pedal 8-4

Swell to Pedal 8-4

Choir to Pedal 8-4

Lauck Pipe Organ Company

92 - 24th Street

Otsego, MI 49078-9633

Telephone: 269/694-4500

Fax: 269/694-4401

<[email protected]>

Cover photo by Richard Lanenga

 

Paul Fritts and Co., Tacoma,
Washington, has built a new organ for Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, New York.
The mechanical-action pipe organ is installed in the 500-seat Mary Anna Fox
Martel Recital Hall of the Belle Skinner Music Building. It contains 34 stops
distributed over two manuals (Hauptwerk and Positiv) and Pedal.

The tonal design reflects both the North and Middle German schools of
organbuilding from the first half of the eighteenth century. North German
features include fully independent manual and pedal divisions with
well-developed upper work; a full spectrum of mutation stops (two on double
draws); and seven reed stops, 20% of the registers. Middle German building is
represented by a variety of six manual 8' flue stops; the “gravity”
of 16' stops in each manual division and four 16' pedal stops; a Tierce rank
which can be added to the Hauptwerk Mixture; and the inclusion of the Positiv
division in the main case, rather than positioned to the rear of the player.

The northern features pay homage to the seventeenth-century style of Arp
Schnitger and the middle German school points more to the pre-Romantic
eighteenth-century styles of Wender, Trost, Hildebrandt and others. The new
Vassar organ is well-suited for music of J. S. Bach with its cosmopolitan
mixture of northern, middle, and southern European traits. Other literature
from the sixteenth-century through the works of Mendelssohn will also sound to
advantage.

The new organ is placed centrally in a gallery nine feet above the stage
floor in the front of the hall. The case has a bright burgundy enamel finish.
Gold leaf highlights the gray painted pipe shades. The case and many internal
parts are crafted from popular. 
Many other woods were chosen for their various properties, including
mahogany, oak, maple, ebony, redwood and sugar pine.

Along with the new organ came alterations to the organ gallery and stage
area significantly improving acoustics, and a climate control system for the
recital hall. The Marian and Speros Martel Foundation Inc. donated funds
covering both the organ and hall improvements. Glenn D. White recommended
acoustical improvements, and Richard Turlington designed architectural plans
for the room. Frances D. Fergusson, President of Vassar College, initiated the
project. George B. Stauffer was consultant.

To inaugurate the new instrument, Merellyn Gallagher, James David Christie,
and Joan Lippincott played solo recitals in February and March 2003.

HAUPTWERK

16' Principal

8' Octava

8' Rohrflöte

8' Viol di Gamba

4' Octava

4' Spitzflöte

Nasat/Cornet II*

2' Superoctava

Mixture Tierce

Mixture IV–VI

16' Trompet

8' Trompet

POSITIVE

8' Geigenprincipal

8' Gedackt

8' Quintadena

4' Octava

4' Rohrflöte

2' Octava

2' Gemshorn

11/3' Quinte

Quint/Sesquialtara II*

Mixture IV–V

16' Fagotto

8' Dulcian

PEDAL

16' Principal**

16' Violon

16' Subbass

8' Octava***

8' Bourdon***

4' Octava

Mixture V–VII

16' Posaune

8' Trompet

4' Trompet

* Double draw

** Bottom octave transmission from Hauptwerk

*** Extension

Couplers

                        Positiv
to Hauptwerk

                        Hauptwerk
to Pedal          

                        Positiv
to Pedal

Manual/Pedal compass: 56/30, flat pedalboard

Burnished tin front pipes

Solid wood casework with pipe shades carved by Judy Fritts

Suspended key action

Mechanical stop action

Variable tremulant

Three bellows fitted with pedals for foot pumping

Wind stabilizer

Pitch: A 440

Temperament: Kellner

Wind pressure: 74 mm. (ca. 3≤)

Fabry Pipe Organs, Inc., of Fox
Lake, Illinois, has completed the 5-rank antiphonal division added to the
original Möller organ in Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, Homewood,
Illinois.

Fabry Inc. installed the original M.P. Möller instrument (2 manuals, 19
ranks) in 1980 in the rear balcony of the sanctuary and has been maintaining
the organ since that time. The console was prepared for an antiphonal division.
On many occasions while tuning the instrument, the organist, Mrs. Phyllis
Silhan, would always say, “I hope I get to see this instrument completed
before I retire.” Twenty-two years later, the church elected to add the
antiphonal division.

The new antiphonal division was installed in October of 2002. The original
specification for this division--8' Gedeckt, 4' Gemshorn, 2' Flautino, II
Mixture--was changed to 8' Gedeckt, 4' Octave, 4' Harmonic Flute, 2' Fifteenth,
and 8' Oboe. A new solid-state relay was provided that is totally prepared for
the addition of a small antiphonal console.

Fabry Inc. would like to thank the organist, Mrs. Phyllis Silhan, and
Reverend Dr. Timothy Knaff, who coordinated the entire project. David G. Fabry
built all the chestwork and new casework. Crew leader Joseph Poland handled the
installation.

GREAT

8' Principal

8' Bourdon

4' Octave

2' Super Octave

IV Fourniture

8' Trompette (Sw)

SWELL

8' Rohrflote

8' Viola

8' Viola Celeste

4' Spitz Principal

4' Rohrflote (ext)

2' Hohlflote

III Scharf

8' Trompette

ANTIPHONAL (new division)

8' Gedeckt

4' Octave

4' Harmonic Flute

2' Fifteenth

8' Oboe

PEDAL

16' Contra Bass

16' Rohr Bourdon (ext)

8' Principal (Gt)

8' Rohrflote (Sw)

4' Nachthorn

16' Bombarde (ext)

4' Clarion (Sw)

COUPLERS

                        Gt
& Sw to Ped 8

                        Sw
to Gt 16-8-4

                        Gt
4

                        Sw
16-UO-4

                        Antiph
to Ped 8

                        Antiph
to Gt 8

                        Antiph
to Sw 8

New Organs

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Cover

Buzard Pipe
Organ Builders, Champaign, Illinois

Opus 29,
completed November, 2003

All Saints
Episcopal Church, Atlanta, Georgia

Some years ago I was contacted about a new organ for All Saints Episcopal
Church by the assistant organist, Jefferson McConnaughey. We seemed to be
speaking the same language concerning how we thought organs should sound, and I
was eager to meet him, music directors Ray and Elizabeth Chenault, and to visit
the church. Our conversations were put on hold while the parish called a new
rector and undertook other projects. At the time we were blessed with
commissions to build the organ at St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral, Oklahoma
City, and large instruments for Glenview Community Church (III/71) and Holy
Family Catholic Church of Rockford, Illinois (III/56).

A few years went by, and I was invited to visit the church. Judging from the
size of the instrument under discussion, I expected to enter a huge space.
Instead, the church was more modest than vast, the acoustic more understated
than generous. At first blush, it seemed that 40 stops could have adequately
met their needs. But, no real lady ever gives up all her secrets at once, and
so I patiently looked and listened.

I listened to their former instrument while walking around the room, and
observed the acoustical phenomena under which the musicians had been laboring
for so long. The organ, although installed in the chancel in relatively close
proximity to the congregation, diminished drastically in volume in the nave. I
concluded that a part of the organ had to be installed in the body of the
church, to support singing and "pull" the sound out of the main part
of the organ installed in the chancel. Additionally, sound generated in the
nave lost its energy quickly; sound simply didn't travel well without becoming
garbled.

The musicians wanted to be able to properly register an organ to
"text-paint" Anglican Chant, choral anthems and ceremonial music in
the Anglican musical tradition. They needed a wide variety of accompanimental
tone colors at every dynamic level so that the organ could always support the
singers, even at pianissimo volume levels. It was equally important that the
organ musically render the great body of organ literature, even that of the
French Baroque school, of which Mr. McConnaughey seemed quite fond. And, the
Chenaults are duo organists; the literature which has been (and has yet to be)
commissioned for them had to be accommodated. This requires a large organ, as
coloristic stops outside the component voices for the essential choruses had to
be included and integrated into the design. Fortunately, these stops were never
in competition for space or funding, nor were our classic concepts of the
hierarchical scaling of divisions within the instrument ever compromised. Some
specific organs were studied: The Temple Church, London; King's College,
Cambridge; and St. Paul's Cathedral, London.

There is a beautiful chapel behind the Epistle side choir stalls, at 90
degrees to the axis of the church, which also serves as an overflow room on
Sundays. Worshippers there were relegated to viewing services on a small
closed-circuit TV, and could not participate in the hymn-singing because, being
outside the body of the church, they couldn't hear the organ. If the new organ
were to address and meet all the musical and acoustical requirements of the
church, then the chapel also needed to have some pipes in it, so that those
seated there could feel a part of the worshiping community.

All of these requirements were brought to bear upon a single instrument. Yes,
I agreed, this instrument has to be large--very large. Even if the room seats
only 550 souls, the musical and physical requirements dictated an organ of a
size which one might initially think out of proportion.

The position and installation of the new Main Organ was relatively
straightforward. The Great, Swell, Choir, Tuba, and Pedal would have to be
installed in the chancel, in an enlarged version of their existing chamber,
plus spaces created by cantilevering steel platforms into the chancel space on
both Epistle and Gospel sides.

The antiphonal division, a romantic Solo Organ including a Diapason Chorus
which mirrors the Great, had to be installed in the nave. But there was no
floor space for cases, no desire to see columns, and windows everywhere, many
of them signed by Louis Comfort Tiffany. By clever engineering of the diatonic
windchest layouts (which we had first used at St. Paul's Cathedral in Oklahoma
City) we were able to tuck the Solo Organ cases up in the rafters of the church
above the narthex, on either side of a central great window. By creative use of
perspective, we were able to engineer the location of the supporting steel
platforms so that they wouldn't block the view of the Tiffany windows in the
side aisles, yet give us sufficient height for the pipes inside the cases.

As conversations concerning the tonal design took shape, Ray, Elizabeth, and
Jeff fell in love with our tonal style which, while embracing eclecticism, has
its own unique personality. They visited both our large organs, and Jeff
actually played Sunday services on our Opus 7 organ at The Chapel of St. John
the Divine in my wife Linda's stead. The All Saints organ is a very logical
outgrowth of our style as practiced in our smaller organs, and as our two
larger organs have led us. The humble beginnings of Opus 7 at the Chapel, in
which we made 29 stops into a cathedral organ, can be seen all over this much
larger organ. Well-informed national and historical inspirations are
distributed throughout, so that the whole is at unity with itself. No German
Hauptwerk, French Récit or English Chair Organs for us. For example the
Great includes the mature English practice of 8' First & Second Open
Diapasons, married nicely to the French Fonds d'Orgue. A voluptuous Full English
Swell has continental fire by virtue of the authentic (but modified) French
reed battery, but the lyrical soft solo reed is a plaintive English Oboe. No
quirky nomenclature either. Although rooted in 19th-century English practice of
"Diapason, Principal, Twelfth, Fifteenth," etc., the stops in our
organs are what they say they are. If the Swell reed is spelled
"Trompette," you can be assured that you will hear a Trumpet with
French shallots and pipe construction.

The Great is based upon a 16' Double Open Diapason of tin which stands
proudly in the Gospel side case along with the rest of the division. A complete
Diapason chorus through Mixture, flutes at 8' & 4', and a Viola da Gamba
make up the flue work, and the reeds are Trombas, brought up to the manuals from
the Pedal Trombone. The Mixture breaks at octaves, rather than at fifth
intervals. In this way, one doesn't hear alternating unison and fifths playing
as the top rank, and the breaks are virtually unheard.

The Great also incorporates an harmonic corroborating stop which was more at
home in English and American concert organs of the early part of the last
century. Our four-rank Harmonic Mixture has in it a unison, a quint, a tierce,
and a flat-seventh. These are all the harmonics present in Tromba class reeds,
which are on the Great at 8' and 4' pitches. We originally included the
Harmonic Mixture as a way to prevent the dark Trombas from covering the
brightness of the mixture work in full organ, but have found that when used
sans Trombas, the ancient flavor of 18th-century Dutch organs is perceived in
an uncanny way. One could even imagine the wind to be unsteady--but of course
it's not!

The Solo has a Diapason Chorus nearly mirroring the Great, and despite its
distance from the Main Organ, it can exactly balance the Great Plenum in
certain contexts. The Solo contains a pair of E. M. Skinner-inspired Gambas,
the celesting rank in the case across the church from its unison pair. Now
that's a Celeste! The Flügel Horn, while a lyrical romantic solo reed, has
just enough harmonic interest to function beautifully as a chorus reed. The
Bassett Horn is certainly at home playing obbligato parts in Elgar, but has
just enough Cromorne in it to play Daquin with a French nose in the air.

One can use the Choir in a classic context, as a Positiv when a lighter foil
to the Great is desired. But this division is the real choral accompanying
workhorse. It's one of the most elegant, light, but profound Choir divisions we
have created. The Choir features a flute chorus from 16' up, and a proper
Diapason chorus complete with a four-rank quint mixture, a fifth interval
higher than the Great. But the luxurious feature in this day and age is our
Dulciana Chorus, which includes a three-rank mixture in which the 4' enters
early on at tenor C. Our Dulcianas are truly small Diapasons, and there is
nothing like the effect of accompanying voices with Diapason color, but at such
a soft volume. The Dulciana Mixture has many uses in coloring and painting
texts, 90% of which I would never have envisioned. Our Cornopeans are
small-scaled, but fundamental Trumpets as the original prototypes were, not the
horn-like Cornopeans one would otherwise love to hate. The Clarinet is truly of
English style, and the English Horn is orchestral in color with enough body to
be the foundation of the Choir reed battery, yet enough jazz in the color to
differentiate itself from the more fundamental Swell English Oboe.

The Chapel Organ includes a small-scaled Diapason Chorus at 8' and 4' to
lead the hymn-singing, and an 8' Aeoline and Vox Angelica. These very, very
soft string-toned stops allow the worshippers there to feel connected, and also
provide a powerfully effective pianissimo "wrap-around" effect as the
softest sounds concluding a smooth decrescendo. These little strings can just
be barely heard in the nave as the expression box closes on the Solo Flute
Cœlestis. When they play alone, they are literally in another room, off in
the distance.

In the All Saints organ, the Great, Swell, Choir, Solo, and a portion of the
Pedal divisions play upon 4 inches of wind pressure. The Trombones and Trombas
play upon 7 inches of wind, the Solo Festival Trumpets on 6 inches, and the
Major Tuba plays upon 20 inches of wind. The Tuba is housed in its own
expression box, and the organist can easily select which expression shoe may be
used to operate the Tuba's expression (or whether it is to remain open) by a
simple rotary switch. We aim to expand the color and dynamic range of the pipe
organ, while keeping the console controls simple and straightforward.

Before I was selected as their builder, Ray, Elizabeth, and Jeff charged me
to design the perfect instrument for all their requirements, and they would
undertake the responsibility of presenting this plan to the organ committee to
get their reaction, and see if the instrument would have to suffer at the hands
of "value engineers." Although my past experience made me somewhat
timid about presenting such a large (expensive) instrument as part of a
selection competition, we arrived at the specification of 63 straight speaking
stops, 87 ranks of pipes (5229 pipes overall), in five free-standing cases
throughout their church.

I will never forget the evening of a crucial organ committee meeting when I
received an excited telephone call from Ray. The musicians presented the
proposal and the room fell silent. People on the committee asked questions to
the effect: "Now, do all three of you musicians agree on this builder? Do
all three of you agree with each other in every respect to this instrument?"
When the answer was an emphatic yes, a committee member said: "How many
times do musicians agree with each other about anything, let alone every of the
many thousands of details in this organ's design!? This is what we need for All
Saints, and we need John-Paul to build it for us." A member of the
committee, Sarah Kennedy, later wrote a check for the entire project, in loving
memory and in honor of her family, The Kenans.

The organs' visual designs were developed during August and September of
2001. The first draft of the Chapel Organ's design was revised to be more in
keeping with the modern nature of the chapel (and less like King's College,
Cambridge). The Main Organ and the Solo Organs were built according to my first
pen-and-ink renderings.

All of my design drawings are executed by hand. The discipline of cleaning
the drafting table and truing the parallel bars and 90-degree instruments
contributes to clearing my mind of everything except what I need to think about
for the organ on the blank piece of paper.

It is always my goal to design organ cases which appear as though they had
always been in the church. The All Saints cases use shapes and colors found
throughout the room, and mirror the restrained nature of the Victorian Gothic
design. But the cases become vivid, exciting, and dramatic by incorporation of
the fabulous red enamel and gold leaf adorning the church's clerestory. The
inclusion of the red gave me license to add contracting pieces of red-stained
Honduras mahogany in the stained white oak cases. The soaring nature of the
Solo Organs, as their lines ascend while moving toward the great window, seemed
to cry out for heraldic angels, announcing the Great Day of Judgment on
gold-leafed trumpets. Thanks to parishioner David Foerster for making these
possible.

All of us will remember exactly where we were on 9/11. I was at the drafting
table finishing the designs for the Main Organ cases. I had penciled the
drawing the day before and was preparing to ink the drawing when I heard the
news reports. My entire staff came up to the drafting room and we all went to
the conference area where a small television showed us the horrors unfold as
the second airliner smashed into the second building. As we heard a large
airplane overhead, being sent to land at our local airport, I was asked if we
were going to close for the day. I said, no. We had to go about our task of
making beautiful things, especially in light of the ugliness that visited
itself on our country that day. If we wanted to take time off individually to
mourn our country's losses, go with my blessing, but the doors would remain
open and I would continue to draw a beautiful pair of pipe organ cases.

I set to cleaning out my India ink pens, and put on a CD of The English
Anthem II
from St. Paul's Cathedral,
London.

Oh Lord, look down from heaven, and behold the habitation
of Thy holiness and of Thy glory: Where is Thy zeal and Thy strength? Thy
mercies towards me, are they restrained?

My deepest thanks to the musicians at All Saints Church, everyone on the
organ committee, Greg Kellison, chairman; Paul Elliott, the rector; David
Foerster, and Sarah Kennedy for selecting me and my firm for this tremendous
commission.

My overwhelming gratitude goes to the members of my staff whose hard work
and dedication made such an excellent instrument so sublime: Charles Eames,
executive vice president, general manager and chief engineer; Brian K. Davis,
associate tonal director; Keith Williams, service department director; Shayne
Tippett, shop manager; Jay Salmon, office manager; Evan Rench, pipe maker,
voicer; Steve Downes, tonal assistant; C. Robert Leach, cabinetmaker; Stuart
Martin, cabinetmaker; Kenneth McCabe, winding systems; Ray Wiggs, consoles,
windchests; Robert Ference, service technician; Stuart Weber, service
technician; Jonathan Borchardt, service technician; JoAnne Hutchcraft Rench,
receptionist.

--John-Paul Buzard

GREAT (4-inch wind pressure)

Manual II - unenclosed pipework

16' Double Open Diapason

8' First Open Diapason

8' Second Open Diapason (ext 16')

8' Viola da Gamba

8' Harmonic Flute

8' Bourdon

4' Principal

4' Spire Flute

22/3' Twelfth

2' Fifteenth

2' Fourniture V

13/5' Harmonic Mixture IV

16' Double Trumpet

8' Trombas (ext Ped)

4' Clarion (ext Ped)

Tremulant

Chimes

8' Major Tuba (20" wind)

8' Tuba Solo (melody coupler)

8' Fanfare Trumpets (Solo)

SWELL (4-inch wind pressure)

Manual III - enclosed and expressive

8' Open Diapason

8' Stopped Diapason

8' Salicional

8' Voix Celeste

4' Principal

4' Harmonic Flute

22/3' Nazard

2' Flageolet

13/5' Tierce

22/3' Full Mixture V

16' Bassoon

8' Trompette

8' Oboe

8' Vox Humana

4' Clarion (ext 16')

Tremulant

8' Major Tuba (Gt)

8' Fanfare Trumpets (Solo)

CHOIR (4-inch wind pressure)

Manual I - enclosed and expressive

16' Lieblich Gedeckt (wood)

8' English Open Diapason

8' Flûte à Bibéron

8' Gedeckt Flute (ext 16')

8' Dulciana

8' Unda Maris

4' Principal

4' Koppel Flute

2' Recorder

2' Mixture III–IV (Dulcianas)

11/3' Fourniture IV

Sesquialtera II (22/3' & 13/5')

16' English Horn

8' Cornopean

8' Clarinet

Tremulant

Cymbalstern (14 bells)

8' Major Tuba (Gt)

8' Fanfare Trumpets (Solo)

Harp (digital)

Celesta (digital)

ANTIPHONAL SOLO (4- & 51/2-inch wind)

Manual IV - in twin cases over the narthex (expressive)

8' Open Diapason

8' Viola da Gamba

8' Gamba Celeste (CC)

8' Melodia

8' Flute Cœlestis II (Ludwigtone)

4' Principal

4' Flûte d'Amour

2' Doublette

11/3' Mixture IV

8' Flügel Horn

8' Corno di Bassetto

Tremulant

Cymbalstern (8 bells)

Chimes (Gt)

8' Fanfare Trumpets

8' Major Tuba (Gt)

Harp (digital)

Celesta (digital)

PEDAL (various wind pressures)

32' Double Open Diapason (digital)

32' Subbass (digital)

32' Lieblich Gedeckt (Ch, digital)

16' First Open Diapason

16' Second Open Diapason (Gt)

16' Bourdon

16' Lieblich Gedeckt (Ch)

8' Principal

8' Bass Flute (ext 16' Bourdon)

8' Gedeckt Flute (ext 16' Lieblich)

4' Choral Bass

4' Open Flute (ext 16' Bourdon)

22/3' Mixture IV

32' Contra Trombone (wood)

16' Trombone (wood, ext 32')

16' Double Trumpet (Gt)

16' Bassoon (Sw)

8' Trumpet (ext 16')

4' Clarion (Sw)

8' Major Tuba (Gt)

8' Fanfare Trumpets (Solo)

CHAPEL (4-inch wind, floating)

8' Open Diapason

8' Aeoline

8' Vox Angelica (tc)

4' Principal

Chapel on Great

Chapel on Swell

Chapel on Choir

Chapel on Solo

Chapel on Pedal

Intraddivisional couplers

Gt/Gt 16-UO-4

Sw/Sw 16-UO-4

Ch/Ch 16-UO-4

Solo/Solo 16-UO-4

Interdivisional couplers

Gt/Ped 8, 4

Sw/Ped 8, 4

Ch/Ped 8, 4

Solo/Ped 8, 4

Sw/Gt 16, 8, 4

Ch/Gt 16, 8, 4

Solo/Gt 16, 8, 4

Sw/Ch 16, 8, 4

Solo/Ch 16, 8, 4

Pedal Stops to Divisional Pistons


The Wicks Organ Company, Highland,
Illinois has built a new organ for the Barrington United Methodist Church,
Barrington, Illinois. In 1999 the church building was destroyed by fire. Their
losses included a 41-rank Möller pipe organ, which had been rebuilt as
recently as 1988. As planning for their new building began, the search for a
new pipe organ started. The church’s demands for their new organ were
that it had to be a great congregational organ, but also able to perform for
recitals as well. The sanctuary was to be a top-notch performance facility as
well as a place of worship. The church desired an organ of 3 manuals and 5
divisions, including an antiphonal. Each division was to have a principal
chorus, and the foundations of the Great organ were to be exposed.

The church committee heard many styles of instruments built by Wicks over
the last seven decades. This included, a North German neo-Baroque style
instrument, a symphonic organ scaled and designed by Henry V. Willis, an
American Classic, and an Aeolian instrument from the 1920s that had been
rebuilt by the Wicks Organ Company in conjunction with Mr. Madison Lindsey. The
service playing abilities of each instrument were demonstrated to the
committee, and they identified and found themselves drawn to the
English/symphonic style of the rebuilt Aeolian instrument. The organ committee
chose Wicks over several other builders after hearing several new Wicks
installations and the company ‘s recent success in exactly this style of
instrument.

The completed organ is described as an English service organ with orchestral
capabilities. The instrument is able to not only provide a seamless crescendo
from ppp to fff, but can do it with flair. In addition to service music, the
organ is able to perform every possible type of organ literature from the
Renaissance to the present. It is also able to realize orchestral
transcriptions with great skill, thanks to the presence of many orchestral solo
stops in each division, blending choruses, and 2-inch thick beveled and overlapping
felted shades. The completed organ consists of 24 ranks of pipes and 25 digital
voices. The Wicks design team pre-engineered space to accommodate real pipe
ranks to replace these voices. The Swell is on 7 inches of wind, the Pedal 10
inches; the Choir and Great are on 6 inches, with the exception of the
Clarinet, English Horn, and Tuba in the choir, which are all on 10 inches.

The solo reeds of this organ are of a unique style, derived from the
Willis/Wicks style reeds used in many Wicks organs over the decades, married to
the traditional ideas of Skinner solo reeds. The end results were clear,
smooth, stops of unique color and great versatility throughout the compass. The
greatest asset to the organ is the lively acoustical environment of the sanctuary.
The collaboration of the building committee, acousticians Kirkegaard &
Associates of Chicago, and the Wicks Organ Company have resulted in a
beautiful, successful combination of organ and room.

The console is drawknob style with 45-degree side jambs, a glass music rack,
and P&S keys with ivory resin naturals and ebony sharps. The drawknobs are
made of polished hardwood. Made of red oak, the interior is very light and the
exterior is stained to match the woodwork of the chancel furnishings. The console
features a tilt tab that allows the digital Tuba and Festival Trumpet to
emanate from the antiphonal division located in the rear of the church instead
of their native divisions. The console also has a Manual I/II transfer for
French literature.

Installation of Opus 6412 began in August of 2003, and an initial tonal
finishing and adjustment of digital voices took place in early September. After
the church’s dedication, Wicks tonal director Dr. William Hamner and reed
voicer Greg Caldwell completed an entire tonal finishing.

--Brent Johnson

Great (exposed)

16’ Violone*

8’ First Open Diapason

8’ Second Open Diapason

8’ Violoncello

8’ Harmonic Flute (Ch)

4’ Principal

4’ Flute Octaviante

2’ Fifteenth

IV Full Mixture

8’ Chorus Tuba (Ch)

8’ Festival Trumpet* (Ant)

8’ Tuba Mirabilis* (Ant)

Chimes* (Ant)

Swell (expressive)

16’ Minor Bourdon*

8’ Open Diapason

8’ Stopped Diapason*

8’ Viola*

8’ Viola Celeste*

8’ Flauto Dolce*

8’ Flute Celeste*

4’ Octave Diapason

4’ Triangular Flute*

22/3’ Nazard*

2’ Recorder*

13/5’ Tierce*

IV Plein Jeu

16’ Waldhorn*

8’ Cornopean

8’ Oboe*

4’ Clarion

8’ Festival Trumpet* (Ant)

8’ Tuba Mirabilis* (Ant)

Tremolo

Choir (expressive)

8’ Geigen (1-12*)

8’ Concert Flute

8’ Dolcan*

8’ Dolcan Celeste*

4’ Octave Geigen

4’ Transverse Flute

2’ Harmonic Piccolo

16’ Bass Clarinet

8’ Clarinet

8’ English Horn

8’ French Horn*

8’ Festival Trumpet* (Ant)

8’ Tuba Mirabilis* (Ant)

8’ Chorus Tuba

Tremolo

Harp*

Antiphonal (unenclosed - floating) (prepared)

8’ Festival Trumpet*

8’ Tuba Mirabilis*

Chimes*

Antiphonal Pedal (prepared)

Pedal

32’ Contre Bourdon*

16’ Open Wood

16’ Major Bourdon

16’ Violone* (Gt)

16’ Minor Bourdon* (Sw)

8’ Principal

8’ Flute

8’ Stopped Flute

4’ Octave

4’ Harmonic Flute (Gt)

32’ Ophicleide*

16’ Trombone (1–12*)

16’ Waldhorn (Sw)

8’ Tromba

8’ Trumpet (Sw)

4’ Oboe (Sw)

7-bell zimbelstern

*= Digital Voices

New Organs

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Cover

Goulding & Wood, Inc.,
Indianapolis, Indiana,

Preston Hollow Presbyterian
Church, Dallas, Texas

From the organ builder

From our first contact with the committee of Preston Hollow
Presbyterian Church, we were excited about the possibility of working in
Dallas, with its rich pipe organ culture and many significant instruments. At
the same time, our focus throughout the project has been the same as with all
of our instruments, namely to provide a worshiping community with a versatile
resource that supports their music ministry. Creating a liturgically sensitive
design within the larger context of the Dallas organ community posed challenges
as well as many exciting opportunities.

Throughout the process, we were grateful for the support and
assistance of the Organ Selection Committee, chaired by Jim Watkins, and the
church music staff, including Terry Price, director of music, and Annette
Albrecht, organist. In the many conversations, visits and meals we shared, the
people of Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church became close friends, and we
continue to value their input and camaraderie.

Tonally, the organ is structured around a carefully balanced
plan of principal choruses. Each division relates to and complements the other
divisions in a terraced scheme. The Great plenum is based at 16' pitch with a
divided six-rank mixture allowing for an 8' chorus when desired. The Swell acts
in relief to the Great in a traditional Positiv-Hauptwerk manner. The higher
pitched Cymbale mixture is effective in plenum literature as well as in
coloristic effects. In contrast, the Choir principal chorus is specifically
oriented toward the needs of choral accompaniment, and the mixture clearly
delineates tone without becoming oppressive or over-stated. The Pedal plenum is
built along lines similar to the Great and has a complete, independent chorus
of principals beginning at 16' pitch.

Each manual division contains a third-sounding rank,
increasing the flexibility in playing Cornet-based literature, particularly
French grands jeux and dialogues. Both Great and Choir Cornets are
decomposée, while the light, diapason Sesquialtera of the Swell effectively
colors flutes or principals.

Flute choruses in the instrument display a maximum of
variety in color, ranging from the solid Great 8' Bourdon and 4' Flûte
conique to the Swell's crisp, articulate wooden flutes at 8' and 4' with a
crowning 2' Recorder in 70% lead. The Choir's flute ensemble is the largest of
the divisions and includes a luxurious 16' Conical Flute. Among the largest yet
softest pipes in the organ, this stop features a clarity of pitch created by
the open taper that lays a solid foundation for quieter combinations. Pedal
flutes include the 32' Contre Bourdon, the wooden 16-8' Contrebasse, an 8'
stopped wood Flûte bouchée and the 4' Cantus Flute. The
Contrebasse/Flûte is useful as the foundation of plenum literature,
particularly works in the style of earlier German composers such as Buxtehude,
while the 8' range works well as the chant line in French classic organ masses.
We have recently been exploring solo stops for the Pedal's alto line, and the
4' Cantus Flute in this instrument is our first open wood with inverted mouths
and raised caps. The prominent, commanding flute timbre is designed especially
for works such as the fourth movement of Widor's Fifth Symphony
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Reed stops in the organ span a similarly wide spectrum of dynamic
and style. The Choir solo stops of Cremona, English Horn and Tuba contrast with
the dramatic fire of the Swell reed chorus with independent trumpets at 16', 8'
and 4'. The Pedal chorus is built on the 32' Posaune with wooden resonators
that encourage a generous amount of fundamental pitch. All reeds in the organ,
with the exception of the resonators of the Posaune, are from A. R. Schopp's
Sons, who also made the strings, Great Harmonic Flute and display pipes. We are
grateful to the people of A. R. Schopp's for their excellent work in all of our
projects.

The casework of the façade incorporates the main
architectural ornament details in the room. Hand-carved Corinthian capitals
based on the Temple of the Winds design support a substantial architrave with
dental molding and carved egg-and-dart detail molding. The console features
panels with crotch mahogany and styles and rails with quarter-sawn ribbon
mahogany. Console controls include 128 levels of memory, simple sequence memory
with advance thumb pistons in each key slip and an internal MIDI interface with
data filer for record and playback.

Mechanically, the organ uses Goulding & Wood's unique
design of electro-pneumatic slider and pallet windchests. This design offers a
tightness of ensemble and attractive speech characteristics which typify common
key channel instruments while allowing for remote, moveable key control. This
marriage of recognized mechanical design and up-to-date technology produces a
musical instrument of great expression and versatility. Adding to the reliable
chest mechanics, the layout and engineering of the instrument allows
accessibility for maintenance and tuning as well as maximizing tonal egress.
Great and Swell divisions are located near the barrel-vault ceiling, allowing their
voice to emanate freely through the room, and the Choir box is located near the
choir stalls of the chancel for effective accompaniment.

It is our hope and expectation that our Opus 41 will serve
the people of Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church well in their worship for
generations to come. Similarly, we look forward to contributing to the vibrant
cultural life of Dallas.

--Jason Overall

From the organist

My first days as organist at Preston Hollow Presbyterian
Church in March of 2000 were filled with excitement. The congregation had
recently approved a capital building expansion campaign that included new
facilities for music rehearsal, an enlarged and acoustically improved
sanctuary, and a new pipe organ. Becoming part of the music ministry team, forming
new relationships with congregation, choir and staff, and jumping right into
the process of selecting a builder for the new instrument was a challenge.
Working with Dr. Jim Watkins, chair of the selection committee, Terry Price,
music director and former classmate, and the rest of the committee was a joy.
The enormity and challenge of embarking on a project of this scope became very
real, and it was with a sense of certainty and good fortune that we decided to
entrust the planning and building of this new instrument to Goulding &
Wood, Inc. of Indianapolis.

While the organ committee was busy planning the
specification for this instrument with Jason Overall and Brandon Woods of
Goulding & Wood, others at the shop consulted with the architects for the
sanctuary expansion. To have the organ builder involved in this process was a
luxury that many don't experience. After the sanctuary renovation was complete,
we still had to wait another year for the organ. We finalized the stoplist,
enjoyed frequent digital photos of building progress e-mailed from the
workshop, and tried to imagine the sounds of the new instrument. Frequent
communication from the folks at Goulding & Wood helped us plan and prepare
for the installation, which occurred in the fall of 2003. Because of this, very
few problems were encountered, and the organ was ready several weeks earlier
than forecast.

It's very difficult to describe the pleasure of musical
sound. Most music lovers can recall the experience of sound lifting and
transporting the soul, of losing oneself in the beauty and holiness of the
moment. I and many others expected this instrument to provide the instrumental
voices for this kind of experience. The visual impact is simple, elegant, and
stunningly beautiful. The sound is rich and resonant, not muddy, but
full-bodied, with mixtures providing clarity and brilliance without a hint of
shrillness. Since the installation, my days have been filled with the wonder of
discovery. Instead of trying yet another trick to find a registration that
works, I have the delightful challenge of choosing from among several beautiful
possibilities. Preparing hymn accompaniments is a joy; the sanctuary's
acoustical improvements support the organ and congregation's song.
Possibilities for anthem accompaniments for our 120-voice choir are nearly
limitless. Repertoire that was filed away is brought out, registered, and
played, with the exclamation, "Aha! That's how it should sound!" The
powerful voice of Opus 41 fills the 900-seat space without becoming strident;
the Tuba 8' provides a crowning touch. The softest manual voice, the Choir
Conical Flute 8', almost disappears, while the 32' Contre Bourdon purrs quietly
underneath.

I believe I may speak for the selection committee, the
Preston Hollow Sanctuary Choir, the music ministry, and the congregation when I
say that we are truly blessed. We had a dream that was recognized by this
congregation to have great value, that merited considerable financial
commitment. This dream was nurtured, shaped and strengthened by our
collaboration with the Goulding & Wood organ builders. Our desire for a
pipe organ that could lead us as we lift our hearts, souls and voices together
in praise of our Creator God has been realized.  Our journey of stewardship of this great gift is now just
beginning.

--Annette Albrecht

From the senior minister

I have always said that sacred music in worship is "my
sermon," allowing me to hear the Word proclaimed beyond mere words,
interpreted by the great composers of all ages. Music lifts the soul beyond the
merely rational, and inspires God's people to sing the songs of faith.

Our new Goulding & Wood pipe organ has become the
centerpiece of our chancel; more importantly, it is our cantus firmus,
grounding our worship, raising the eye upward and tuning our praises. Already
we sense a new energy, depth and vitality in our services of worship. Whether
it is a Thanksgiving service, Christmas candlelight, a memorial service, a
wedding or an Easter Sunday, our 69-rank Goulding & Wood is capable of all
the nuances of color and meaning needed for the church's many moods.

I cannot express sufficient gratitude to all the artists
from Goulding & Wood who took great interest in our church, befriended our
staff and members and were supremely committed to the building of an instrument
to be used in the worship of God. They will be remembered by generations to
come--every time Goulding & Wood's Opus 41 fills its great bellows and
sings again.

--The Rev. Dr. Blair Monie

Great

16' Præstant

16' Bourdon (ext)

8' Principal

8' Gamba

8' Flûte harmonique

8' Bourdon

4' Octave

4' Flûte conique

2 2/3' Quint

2' Super Octave

1 3/5' Terz

2 2/3' Gross Fourniture II

1 1/3' Fourniture IV

16' Fagot

8' Trumpet

8' Tuba (Choir)

Tremolo

Gt/Gt 16-Unison Off-4

Swell

16' Gedeckt (ext)

8' Geigen Diapason

8' Gedeckt

8' Viole de gambe

8' Voix céleste (GG)

4' Principal

4' Clear Flute

2' Octave

2' Recorder

1 1/3' Quint

2 2/3' Sesquialtera II (TC)

2' Plein Jeu III-IV

1' Cymbale III

16' Contre trompette

8' Trompette

8' Hautbois

8' Voix humaine

4' Clairon

Tremolo

Sw/Sw 16-Unison Off-4

Choir

16' Conical Flute

8' Narrow Diapason

8' Chimney Flute

8' Conical Flute (ext)

8' Flute Celeste

4' Fugara

4' Spindle Flute

2 2/3' Nazard

2' Block Flute

1 3/5' Tierce

1 1/3' Larigot

2' Mixture III

8' Cremona

8' English Horn

8' Tuba

Tremolo

Cymbelstern

Rossignol

Ch/Ch 16-Unison Off-4

Pedal

32' Contre Bourdon

16' Principal

16' Contrebasse

16' Soubasse

16' Bourdon (Great)

16' Gedeckt (Swell)

16' Conical Flute (Choir)

8' Octave

8' Flûte (ext Contrebasse)

8' Flûte bouchée

8' Gedeckt (Swell)

4' Choral Bass

4' Cantus Flute

2' Mixture III

32' Contre Posaune

16' Posaune (ext)

16' Fagot (Great)

8' Trompete

8' Fagot (Great)

8' Tuba (Choir)

4' Schalmei

Tremolo

Cover photo by Robert Duffy

Cover Feature

Files
Oct05_pp_30-31.pdf (162.65 KB)
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John-Paul Buzard Pipe Organ Builders, Champaign, Illinois

Opus 31: St. Bede Catholic Church, Williamsburg, Virginia

This new instrument was just installed this spring, the tonal finishing completed during April and June. This is the 31st new pipe organ built by John-Paul Buzard Pipe Organ Builders of Champaign, Illinois, and
the first of two new Buzard organs to be installed in Williamsburg churches. Williamsburg Presbyterian Church will receive Opus 32 next spring for their new Georgian style building at the entrance to Colonial Williamsburg.

The organ at St. Bede Catholic Church is the result of eight
years of planning and dreaming, hoping and praying. St. Bede’s
communicant strength is about 3,000 families, formerly located in a small
landlocked building close to Colonial Williamsburg. The former site simply could not accommodate the parish’s phenomenal growth, nor could the entire parish worship together. When planning the new building, St. Bede’s pastor, the Rev. Monsignor William Carr, insisted that the new
church include a pipe organ, and that the organbuilder be commissioned to work with the architect from the beginning. The new building, designed by architect Tom Kerns, seats 1,500 and is expandable to seat 2,000.

The then music director, and later consultant for the project, Steve Blackstock, formed a musical instruments committee to select the
organbuilder, as well as other musical instruments for purchase. The musical instruments committee directly communicated with the parish’s building committee (called the core committee) as the new building was planned, to make sure that the organ’s requirements were supported throughout the process.

Even though this church is not located in the Colonial District, there was great concern on the part of the core committee that the building relate to the area’s Georgian architecture--no small feat for a big round room--and that, since the organ case would be the significant visual element in the church, it must reflect appropriate features of Georgian design. A great emphasis was placed on the importance of art and
music as direct participants in liturgical expression, and the organ had to
appeal to all the senses in this surprisingly intimate--although rather
large--space. 

As the building’s design process unfolded, and the cost estimates exceeded projections, significant “value engineering” of the building was undertaken to allow the church to be built. The organ project was shelved and its estimated cost applied toward the building. It became apparent that an organ, whenever it would be installed, would need a small antiphonal division at the opposite end of the church to assist in congregational singing, due to a change in building materials.
Certain stops in the organ were prepared for future addition, to lower the
initial price. The music personnel changed, and the parish concentrated upon building the church. 

Once the building was up, Monsignor Carr’s passion for building the new pipe organ was rekindled. His love of fine art and artistic liturgical expression is infectious. It was through his inner fire that he established the notion in the minds of the parishioners that the church was simply not finished until the pipe organ was installed. Although at the time the church did not have an organist, our contract was signed the week following
the new building’s dedication. 

As the organ’s installation date approached, the parish hired organist Neil Kraft of Ohio to be their new director of music. He has already established himself in the Tidewater area as a musician of high
caliber, and the perfect person to develop an inclusive parochial music
program, with the organ as the principal musical instrument. A concert series to celebrate the dedication of this new instrument is being organized. The opening recital was played by Erik Wm. Suter on Sunday, September 30, and John Scott will play in June of 2006. The church is working on sponsorship of a concert featuring the Virginia Symphony, but this is currently in the planning stage. The new pastor, the Rev. John Abe, is committed to making St. Bede known for beautiful music, both in liturgical and concert contexts, for Williamsburg and the greater Tidewater area.

The organ case stands three stories tall and is made of 11/2-inch thick solid white oak and white oak veneers. Walnut is used for the pipe shades and accenting trim details. This is truly heroic cabinet making! The façades incorporate pipes of the Great 16’ Double Open
Diapason (the low 20 notes of which are shared in the pedal), the Great First and Second 8’ Open Diapasons, and the Pedal 8’ Principal. The
16’ Pedal First Open Diapason of wood stands behind the organ case and is stained and finished in a dark walnut color. Resonators of the low octaves of the Pedal 32’ and 16’ Trombones are made of beautiful, clear pine, continuing upscale in thick 52% tin pipe metal as this stop becomes the manual Tromba, voiced on 7” wind. The big Tuba stands vertically in the Choir box just behind the shutters, and is certainly the Tromba’s big brother, being voiced on nearly 30” pressure!

The Procession Organ’s case is also of white oak, to match the Main Organ case. Its pipe shades are carved basswood. Celtic crosses
have been cut into the tower tops and are enameled in rich, dark purple (the manufacturer’s color name “Monsignor” led to the whimsical
decision to incorporate it into the case in honor of Monsignor Carr), and
outlined in gold leaf. When played with the Main Organ, the Processional
Organ’s two Principal stops have the effect of “pulling” the sound out of the Main Organ’s case and surrounding the listeners with an
incredibly inescapable, voluptuous tone.

The console of 11/2-inch thick white oak is attached to an easily moved platform. And it’s a good thing, because the organ is heard in its best balance starting about 15 feet away from the case. We utilize
AGO radiating, concave pedalboards for their superior ergonomics. In a modern, eclectic pipe organ, the pedalboard’s shape should not limit an
organist’s ability to play in styles other than that which a flat pedalboard
dictates.

Those who have followed our work know that our instruments
are liturgical organs that play literature remarkably well. Our style is in
direct response to the need for an organ to function liturgically and
musically, but not at the expense of a particular historical, national, or
idiosyncratic musical style. Only a classic concept of organbuilding can truly accomplish this, and I think only an organist-trained organbuilder has the ability to empathize with modern American musical requirements, reconcile these to classic organbuilding practices, and know how to achieve the intended results. 

Slider windchests keep the tonal design physically honest,
and offer speech, voicing, and tuning advantages (as well as virtually no
long-term maintenance). Our proprietary Slider Pedal Chest allows us to play a single rank of pedal pipes at several pitches--without giving up slider chest speech, tuning stability, and repetition characteristics. Because they’re pedal stops, and usually only one note is played at a time, we can scale these individual ranks to be appropriate for two or three tonal contexts and save the client some money. 

Although we were one of the first American organbuilders to
reintroduce the Tuba into modern practice, in 1991 at the Chapel of St. John the Divine in Champaign, our tonal innovations are often of a subtler (and quieter) nature.  For example, in this organ we have specially developed Dolcan-shaped pipes for the metal top octaves of open wood ranks; they sound like wood pipes, but stay in tune. We have perfected Walter Holtkamp’s Ludwigtone as our Flute Cœlestis, its plaintive and gentle celesting tone evocative of something heavenly, which
explains the pun in the nomenclature. We have refined the 18th-century French Flûte à Bibéron (“Baby-Bottle Flute”) to be a colorful chimney flute tone suitable for solos, the foundation of a flute chorus, or secondary foundation for a principal chorus.

The sound of the organ is warm and rich, filling the space
nicely with a generous foundation. Each chorus has its own distinctive color, so there is no redundancy within each family of sound. The organist is able to lead congregational singing with a wide variety of color, at many different volume levels. And, recitalists won’t be disappointed in the tonal
resources and the informed manner of their disposition and execution. 

Everyone seems to have found “favorite” stops in this instrument. Of course the Pontifical Trumpets titillate the eye and ear, and most visitors want to hear them right off the bat. However, my 16-year-old son Stephen, already an organist of greater accomplishment than his father, fell in love with the Choir 8’ English Open Diapason while preparing a recital for the Tidewater POE held last June. “It has something to tell you,” he says. What higher compliment can an organbuilder receive? After all, shouldn’t pipe organs have a strong emotional appeal, so that when played they grab you and don’t let go? yes"> 

Henry Willis once said that truly great organs are only created when 90% of the project’s effort is expended upon the last 2% of perfection. After the organ is built, installed, and voiced, it’s that last step of careful, time-consuming, painstaking tonal finishing that imparts a living soul into the instrument. That you feel “connected” while listening or playing is no happy accident, but the result of careful listening and exacting craftsmanship on the part of the voicer working on the pipes. It is only when one is working at this level that organbuilding is truly an art.
And, it is only when clients have the sensitivity and sensibility to know the
difference that truly world-class pipe organs are commissioned.
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> 

It has been a tremendous honor to build this instrument, and
to work with Father Abe, Monsignor Carr, Steve Blackstock, Neil Kraft, and the wonderful people at St. Bede’s Church. We look forward to many years of wonderful music-making and musically inspired liturgies at St. Bede’s.

Deepest thanks to the staff of Buzard Pipe Organ Builders who have made this instrument so much more than the sum of its parts:

Charles Eames, executive vice-president, chief engineer,
general manager

Brian K. Davis, associate tonal director, head voicer, director, tonal department

Phillip S. Campbell, business manager

Keith Williams, director, service department

Shayne Tippett, shop manager

Stuart Martin, cabinet maker

C. Robert Leech, cabinet maker

Bob Ference, cabinet maker and service technician

Lyoshia Svinarski, wind system construction

Kenneth McCabe, wind system construction

Ray Wiggs, console, electrical systems, wind chest
construction

Evan Rench, pipe maker, voicer, racking, tonal associate

Stephen P. Downes, pipe preparation, racking, tonal
associate

Todd Wilson, service technician, installation

Stuart Weber, service technician

Jay K. Salmon, office manager

JoAnne Rench, receptionist

--John-Paul Buzard

43 straight speaking stops, 54 ranks, across three manuals
& pedal

GREAT ORGAN (4” wind)

16’ Double Open Diapason (tin in façade)

8’ First Open Diapason (tin in façade)

8’ Second Open Diapason (1–8 from 16’)

8’ Viola da Gamba (tin)

8’ Claribel Flute (open wood)

4’ Principal

4’ Spire Flute

22/3’ Twelfth

2’ Fifteenth

13/5’ Seventeenth

2’ Fourniture V

V Cornet (tenor C, preparation)

8’ Trumpet (preparation)

8’ Tromba (Ped)

4’ Clarion (from Tromba)

8’ Major Tuba (in case)

8’ Tuba Solo (melody coupler function)

8’ Pontifical Trumpets (polished copper, horizontal,
over entry door)

SWELL (4” wind)

8’ Violin Diapason

8’ Stopped Diapason (wood)

8’ Salicional

8’ Voix Celeste

4’ Principal

4’ Harmonic Flute

2’ Octavin

22/3’ Full Mixture V

16’ Bassoon (full length)

8’ Trompette

8’ Oboe

4’ Clarion

Tremulant

8’ Major Tuba (Ch)

8’ Pontifical Trumpets

CHOIR ORGAN (4” wind)

16’ Lieblich Gedeckt

8’ English Diapason

8’ Flûte à Bibéron

8’ Flute Cœlestis (doubled open wood)

4’ Principal

4’ Suabe Flute (open wood)

22/3’ Nazard

2’ Recorder

13/5’ Tierce

11/3’ Mixture IV

16’ English Horn (preparation)

8’ Clarinet

Tremulant

Cymbalstern

8’ Major Tuba (30” wind)

8’ Pontifical Trumpets (51/2” wind)

PROCESSIONAL ORGAN

(4” wind, housed in a case over the entry doors)

8’ Open Diapason (tin in façade)

4’ Principal

PEDAL (various pressures)

32’ Double Open Diapason (1–12 digital)

32’ Subbass (1–12 digital)

32’ Lieblich Gedeckt (1–12 digital)

16’ First Open Diapason (open wood)

16’ Second Open Diapason (Gt, tin-façade)

16’ Bourdon

16’ Lieblich Gedeckt (Ch)

8’ Principal (tin-façade)

8’ Bass Flute (ext 1st Open)

8’ Bourdon (ext 16’)

8’ Gedeckt Flute (Ch)

8’ Spire Flute (preparation)

4’ Choral Bass (ext 8’)

4’ Open Flute (ext yes">  8’ Bourdon)

32’ Contra Trombone (from 16’, wood)

16’ Trombone (wood)

16’ Bassoon (Sw)

8’ Trumpet (from 16’)

4’ Clarion (from 8’)

8’ Major Tuba (Gt)

8’ Pontifical Trumpets

The organ has a full set of inter- and intra-manual couplers. These have been omitted from this specification for brevity and ease of reading.

New Organs

Default

John-Paul Buzard Pipe Organ Builders, Champaign, Illinois, Opus 27

St. David's Episcopal Church,
Glenview, Illinois

From the builder

This instrument of 23 stops was installed and completed in
time for Easter Day, 2002. The church's limited ceiling height offered us quite
a design challenge. We wanted the instrument's design to assist the eye, to
give the illusion of greater height in a room in which the architecture did
not. Additionally, there was insufficient room in the balcony for the entire
organ. Therefore, the Swell and Pedal Organs are encased on the balcony floor,
but the Great Organ is housed in the smaller case overhanging the balcony rail.
The cases and console are made of beautiful dark walnut; the pipe shades in the
Great case are made of basswood. The façade pipes of the Great and Pedal
Principals are made of polished 75% tin. The roman mouths, round towers, and pipe
shades relate to the arched windows and the barrel vault ceiling. The Tuba is
made of polished copper, and is mounted horizontally off the pediment at the
top of the Swell case. Since its resonators tend to disappear into the shadows,
this somewhat "un-Georgian" feature does not disturb the proportions.

The instrument reflects my tonal aesthetic, in which the
organ's primary responsibility is to accompany singing and be an active and
full participant in the liturgy. To this end, the organ's tonal forces can be
smoothly built up in a seamless crescendo; unison pitched stops of softer
volumes are incorporated into the specification to offer a great variety of
accompanimental textures; a lyrical cantabile reed on each manual may be used
for obbligato playing and coloring of ensembles. The full swell has the
necessary "clang" to dramatically color the full organ, but can
accompany the choir when the shutters are closed.  The Tuba, here voiced on 11 inches of wind, sings smoothly,
but commandingly, above the full organ for thrilling rendering of ceremonial
music.

The instrument plays solo organ literature of many styles
and periods with an innate musicality and warmth. The choruses are finely
balanced within themselves, and between divisions. The chorus reeds color the ensembles,
adding just enough fire in this close acoustical environment to spice things
up, but not overtake. The mixtures truly reinforce fundamental pitch, and
clarify ensembles, rather than confuse them.

It has been a privilege and honor to design and build this
new pipe organ for the people of Saint David's Church. Special thanks to their
Rector, The Rev. Graham Smith, music director Victoria Jicha, and the kind
parishioners and members of the organ committee and vestry who became
captivated by our somewhat unconventional visual design and layout, fell in
love with our tonal style, and worked tirelessly to prepare the space for the
new instrument.

Thanks also to my dedicated staff who
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> 
worked tirelessly to have the
instrument ready for Easter--in a year in which Easter came as early as
possible(!): Brian Davis, associate tonal director; Steve Downes, tonal
assistant; Charles Eames, general manager; JoAnne Hutchcraft, reception; Bob
Leach, cabinetmaker; Stuart Martin, cabinetmaker; Ken McCabe, winding system;
Evan Rench, shop manager and tonal assistant; Jay Salmon, office manager; Ray
Wiggs, windchests; Keith Williams, service manager.

--John-Paul Buzard

 

From the organist and choirmaster

The organ committee that met for the first time in August,
1999, was charged by the vestry to research the need for a new organ. The
committee produced an informative brochure, Sound Exultations, that outlined
the history of music at St. David's, defined the present musical needs of the
parish, and made recommendations for a new pipe organ. The pamphlet was
distributed to the congregation and meetings were held to answer any questions
that parishioners might have. With vestry approval committee members visited
many churches in the Chicago area during the next few months to hear organs by
various makers and invited five organ builders to submit proposals; four
companies responded affirmatively. Visits with these companies were scheduled
through out the summer of 2000, and by November it was clear that the design
submitted by Buzard Organ Builders was the most creative approach to an
inherent architectural problem-a limited ceiling height.

However, two more organ tours were scheduled-one in
December, and a second in January, 2001 to insure that the decision was
correct. Paul Frazer presented the committee's recommendation to the vestry in
February and a contract was signed with Buzard Pipe Organ Builders March 1,
2001.

The organ design required extending the loft into the nave
approximately eight feet, and the previous organ was removed during the summer
to begin the loft reconstruction. Worship services were led by the choir from
the front of the church, accompanied by a piano, from September 2001 until
early November when the loft construction was finished. March 4, 2002 the organ
arrived in thousands of pieces, and the installation was completed by Easter
Day, March 31st, 2002. The organ committee included Marilyn Berdick, Louise
Curry, Linné Dosé, Paul Frazer, Victoria Jicha, Debbie Lowe, Lonn
Myers, Graham Smith, Newland Smith, and Norman Smith.

-Victoria Jicha

Organist and Choirmaster

 

Saint David's Episcopal Church,

Glenview, Illinois

John-Paul Buzard Pipe Organ Builders, Opus 27

23 stops, 29 ranks

GREAT (4" wind)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Lieblich
Gedeckt (wood, in Swell case)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Open
Diapason (polished tin in façade)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Melodia
(open wood)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gedeckt
Flute (from 16')

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Spire
Flute

                  22⁄3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Nazard

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Fifteenth

                  13⁄5'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Tierce

                  11⁄3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Fourniture IV

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Corno
di Bassetto

                                    Tremulant

                                    Cymbalstern
(7 bells)

                                    Chimes
(21 tubes)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Major
Tuba

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Tuba
Solo

                                    Gt/Gt
16-UO-4

                                    Sw/Gt
16-8-4

SWELL (4" wind)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Stopped
Diapason (wood)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Salicional

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Voix
Celeste (TC)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Harmonic
Flute

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Recorder

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Full
Mixture IV

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bassoon

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Oboe
(ext)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Major
Tuba (Gt)

                                    Sw/Sw
16-UO-4

PEDAL (4" & 41⁄2" wind)

                  32'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Subbass
(1-12 digital extension)

                  32'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Lieblich
Gedeckt (1-12 digital)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bourdon
(wood)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Lieblich
Gedeckt (Gt)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal
(polished tin in façade)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Bass
Flute (ext)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gedeckt
Flute (Gt)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Choral
Bass (ext)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Trombone
(41⁄2" wind)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bassoon
(Sw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trumpet
(ext)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Major
Tuba (Gt)

                                    Gt/Ped
8-4

                                    Sw/Ped
8-4

 

A. E. Schlueter Pipe Organ Company
style='font-weight:normal'> of Lithonia, Georgia, has completed a new
instrument for Lumpkin United Methodist Church in Lumpkin, Georgia. This
congregation in rural Georgia pursued replacement of their electronic
instrument with several goals in mind. Foremost was the desire for the superior
sound of wind-blown pipes and the longevity of a pipe organ. Many of the organ committee
members were descendants of the founders or longtime members of this church and
they saw this project as an opportunity to provide an instrument for future
generations.

The placement of this instrument was a challenge because
there was no planned space for a pipe organ and no good location for the
console. The sanctuary is a half-round configuration with seating for 125
congregants. With proper placement of the organ, the intimacy and acoustics of
the room would allow the use of moderate scales and unforced voicing.

The former choir loft was immediately considered for
placement of the organ. It offered an offset right exposure that would allow
placement of the organ in proximity to the choir and worship center.
Furthermore, the adjacent non-parallel surfaces offered excellent dispersion of
organ tone throughout the sanctuary. Proving to be the ideal space, the niche
dimensioned at 10' of width, 5' of depth, and 14' of height, had in recent
years been used for the piano and electronic organ. To solve the problem of
console location, it was decided to provide an attached console. This location
of the organ resulted in the offset of four choir chairs that were moved to the
right and left forward of the organ case.

Architecturally the organ case is historically inspired and
evocative of design elements found in many southern rural churches around the
turn of the century. This blends well with the church architecture that is
itself a blending of many style elements found in Southern post-Reconstruction
architecture. The pipe shades are open carvings composed of interlocked arched
elements; they are gilded and ornament the pipe towers and upper organ case.
The gilding is antiqued to soften the visual impact of this otherwise strong
case element. The organ case was constructed of rift-sawn white oak finished to
match the sanctuary furnishings.

The tonal design of small instruments offers challenges that
are not present with larger instruments. The balance, timbre, weight, and
speech of each register take on greater importance inter and
intra-divisionally. Tonally the organ was conceived to provide the resources
that are normally found in a much larger instrument while maintaining
independence of choruses. It was determined that the two-manual instrument
should have a complete principal chorus, a flute chorus, a companion celeste
for the Viole de Gamba, an ensemble/solo Trompette, and adequate pedal
inclusive of two 16' registers--achieved within a 9-rank scheme.

In this design, it was important to maintain division
independence and to minimize octave parallel borrows within a division. For
example, the Great can be registered with flutes and principals at 8', 4', 2',
and Mixture II for congregational accompaniment without the presence of
parallel borrows. The organ is conceived as a one-manual instrument duplexed to
two manuals under one common expression (Principal 8'--unenclosed). This
expressive treatment allows unique duplexing of organ stops. The duplexing was
designed so that the Swell 8' Gedeckt plays as the 4' Gedeckt in the Great. The
Great 8' Koppelflute plays as the 4' Koppelflute in the Swell. This allows 8'
and 4' divisional independence. Stop design, mixed materials
style="mso-spacerun: yes"> 
(wood and metal), variable scales and
careful voicing allow for the full effectiveness of this tonal design. The
pedal division necessarily has the most duplexing. However, careful
registrations can allow manual and pedal independence.

Though small, the completed instrument embodies tonal
concepts key to all instruments that A. E. Schlueter Pipe Organ Company builds.
It is a revision and expansion of the eclectic American classic concept. Very
simply put, the tonal ideal is to have "warmth not at the expense of
clarity and clarity not at the expense of warmth."

The console drawknobs are of turned macasar ebony with
engraved insets. Other console features include tracker touch keyboards,
playback/record capability, and multi-level combination memory.

The completed instrument visually and tonally ties itself to
the sanctuary as it serves in worship. One of the finest compliments paid to
the firm was made by an elder member of the congregation: "It looks as if
it were designed with the building and has always been here. Now that it's
here, we can't imagine not having it."

A. E. Schlueter Pipe Organ Company (www.pipe-organ.com) can
be reached at P.O. Box 838, Lithonia, GA 30058, or via phone at 770/482-4845.

--Arthur E. Schlueter III

 

GREAT

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Koppelflote
(37 pipes, bass from Subbass)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola
(Sw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola
Celeste TC (Sw)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave
(12 pipes)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gedeckt
(Sw)

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Fifteenth
(12 pipes)

                  11⁄3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Mixture II

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette
(Sw)

                                    Sw/Gt

SWELL

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gedeckt

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola
(49 pipes, 1-12 Ged)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola
Celeste TC (49 pipes)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola
(12 pipes)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Koppelflote
(12 pipes)

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Waldflote
(24 pipes)

                  11⁄3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Quint (54 notes)

                  II
style='mso-tab-count:1'>             
Sesquialtera
(37 pipes)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette

                                    Tremolo

PEDAL

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Subbass

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal
(Gt)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gedeckt
(Sw)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave
(Gt)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flute
(Sw)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Contre
Trompette (12 pipes)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette
(Sw)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Clarion
(Sw)

                                    Gt/Ped

                                    Sw/Ped

 

Schoenstein & Co.,
San Francisco, California, has completed a two-manual, 11-rank organ for First
Church of Christ, Scientist in Belvedere, California. In the late 1930s G.
Donald Harrison and Walter Holtkamp each developed very interesting designs for
small churches that did not want unit organs. This instrument was inspired by
Harrison's design for a one-manual organ disposed over two manuals and pedal
with couplers. The choice and position of voices makes it quite versatile
despite its small size. The softer voices are in the open and the stronger ones
are under expression. The Flugelhorn is based on E.M. Skinner's successful
model. The church, designed in 1953 by renowned architect Warren Callister, is
one of the most respected examples of modern church design in America. An
important element of the project was making the instrument blend so perfectly
with the church fabric so as to make no intrusion on the lovely interior, which
has become a shrine for students of architecture. Mr. Callister worked closely
with Schoenstein, particularly on the console design, which is in a
"neo-craftsman" style and is made of oiled genuine mahogany. The
instrument comprises nine registers and 11 ranks on electric-pneumatic action,
18 speaking stops, 671 pipes.

--Larry Simpson

 

GREAT

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Bourdon
(Sw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola
(Sw)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Nachthorn

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flageolet

                                    Tremulant

                                    Gt
4

                                    Sw/Gt
16-8-4

SWELL

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Bourdon

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Celeste

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Prestant

                  11⁄3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Plein Jeu III

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flugelhorn

                                    Tremulant

                                    Sw
16

                                    Sw
4

PEDAL

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bourdon
(ext Sw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal
(Gt)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Bourdon
(Sw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola
(Sw)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Nachthorn
(Gt)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flugelhorn
(Sw)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flugelhorn
(Sw)

                                    Gt/Ped
8

                                    Sw/Ped
8

New Organs

Default

Cover

Our Savior's Lutheran Church,
Rockford, Illinois

Buzard Pipe Organ Builders,
Champaign, Illinois

Opus 23

 

Builder's statement

It has been a high honor to build the new organ for Our Savior's
Lutheran Church. The congregation is actively engaged in musical expression at
every service and their participation is extraordinarily high. The new organ is
a part of the congregation's ongoing growth and recent construction of a new
church building.

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of America is an inclusive,
living tradition which embraces diversity and newness, while fostering
liturgical expression through the Lutheran Book of Worship and its incredibly
rich musical tradition. It is truly a catholic, inclusive tradition, as are its
musics and requirements for an organ. Therefore, a balanced eclecticism must be
embraced when designing the organ. However, it is only through a single
artistic vision that such eclecticism can have integrity as the organbuilder's
individual style.

Our instruments are first and foremost accompanying organs.
Their primary roles are accompanying choirs, leading hymn-singing and lending
grandeur to ceremonial occasions. They are liturgy-spirited, but
literature-minded as well. A wide variety of solo literature played for
voluntaries and recitals is an essential requirement of an organ and is given
careful consideration when designing all our instruments. The true test of such
an instrument is its ability to sensitively accompany choral repertoire,
colorfully illuminate textual subtleties in the hymns and canticles, and
musically render the Bach "Magnificat" fugue at the close of service.

The abundance of 8-foot stops creates a blended full sound,
made more intense by each successively added stop as a crescendo is built. The
rich, warm "Buzard Trademark" strings are sufficient for leading a
congregation of 300 people, and the full Swell behind the box majestically
supports a choir without overpowering. The Festival Trumpet (a Tuba) can
regally herald the arrival of the Bishop or a bride, and it is orchestrally
appropriate to the full organ's accompaniment. The organ can text-paint the
hymns and accompaniments through registrations and subtle changes as the
meaning of the texts shifts. Within its modest stoplist are the resources to
effectively capture the sprightliness of Purcell, the spirituality of Howells,
and the intricacies of Bach's counterpoint.

The case of this organ is made of solid white oak with
walnut accents, and was designed in conjunction with the building's architects.
The facade pipes utilize flamed copper and polished tin, with the low 9 pipes
of the Pedal 16' Open Diapason made of poplar and cherry, lacquered in a color
which harmonizes with the other colors in the room. The Tuba is horizontally
mounted over the Great Organ and is made of flamed copper. The interior pipes
are made of 50% tin and lead, with 15% tin for some of the metal flutes. The
Great, Swell, and a portion of the Pedal divisions play upon 4 inches of wind
pressure. The low 10 pipes of the Pedal 16' Open Diapason and the 16' Bourdon
play on 41/4  inches, the Festival
Trumpet plays on 10 inches of pressure. The organ comprises 24 stops, 30 ranks,
across two manuals and pedal.

Thanks to the Buzard staff who have made this organ a
reality, and who turn hunks of wood and metal into living, breathing, and
singing creations worthy to praise and extol our Creator. John-Paul Buzard,
design, artistic direction, tonal finishing; Brian Davis, head voicer, manager,
tonal department, installation; Stephen P. Downes, tonal assistant,
installation; Charles Eames, general manager, engineering, installation; R.
Charles Leach, cabinetmaker, installation; Stuart Martin, cabinetmaker,
installation; Kenneth McCabe, cabinetmaker, wind system, installation; Jay K.
Salmon, office manager; Ray Wiggs, console & chest builder, installation;
Keith Williams, service department manager.

 

GREAT

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Lieblich
Gedeckt (wood)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Open
Diapason (tin-facade)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flûte
à Bibéron  (metal)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gedeckt
Flute (ext 16')

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Spire
Flute

                  22/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Twelfth

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Fifteenth

                  13/5'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Seventeenth

                  11/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Fourniture IV

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Minor
Trumpet (Sw 16')

                                    Tremulant

                                    Cymbalstern

                                    Chimes

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Festival
Trumpet (10≤ wind)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trumpet
Solo 8'

                                    Gt/Gt
16-UO-4

                                    Sw/Gt
16-8-4

                                    MIDI
on Great

SWELL

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
English
Diapason

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Stopped
Diapason (wood)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Salicional

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Voix
Celeste (TC)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Harmonic
Flute

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flageolet

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Full
Mixture IV

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bassoon
(full length)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Oboe

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Clarion
(from 16')

                                    Tremulant

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Festival
Trumpet (Gt)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trumpet
Solo (Gt)

                                    Sw/Sw
16-UO-4

                                    MIDI
on Swell

PEDAL

                  32'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Subbass
(1-12 digital)

                  32'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Lieblich
Gedeckt (Gt) (1-12 digi-                                                                 tal)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Open
Diapason (wood, flamed cop-                                        per,
polished tin)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bourdon
(wood)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Lieblich
Gedeckt (Gt) (wood)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal
(from 16') (tin-facade)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gedeckt
Flute (from 16')

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Choral
Bass (from 8') (tin-facade)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Trombone
(ext Sw Trpt)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Basson
(Sw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trumpet
from 16')

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Clarion
(from Sw 16')

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Festival
Trumpet (Gt)

                                    Gt/Ped
8 4

                                    Sw/Ped
8 4

                                    MIDI
on Pedal

 

Festival Trumpet

Swell reed battery

 

Lauck Pipe Organ Company, Otsego, Michigan, has completed an
organ renovation project for Pillar Christian Reformed Church, Holland,
Michigan. The church's organ was originally built in 1900 by Barkhoff. In 1928,
Hinners installed an electro-pneumatic organ. Stolz Piano and Organ of Holland,
MI, was contracted in 1965 to provide a new console, recondition pipes and
replace the blower. In 1996 Lauck Pipe Organ Company installed a new 2-manual
console and completed an electric action rebuild as their Opus 42, which added
11 new ranks, repositioned the windchests, and returned the facade to the 1900
configuration. The present project added nine new ranks, including a third
manual division, revoicing and rescaling of old ranks, and a new three-manual
console. The firm's Opus 52 comprises 31 ranks, electric action. A service of
rededication took place on September 10 with guest organist Linda Hakken
performing. Jonathan Tuuk played the rededication concert on September 11.

 

GREAT

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Spitzflute

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Hohlflute

                  22/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Nazard

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Superoctave

                  13/5'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Tierce

                                    Mixture
III

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Festival
Trumpet

                                    Chimes

                                    Harp

                                    Gt/Gt
4

                                    Sw/Gt
16-8-4

                                    Ch/Gt
16-8-4

CHOIR

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gedeckt

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Salicional

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Voix
Celeste (49 pipes)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flute
Harmonique

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Blockflute

                  11/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Larigot

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Krummhorn

                                    Tremulant

                                    Ch/Ch
16-4

                                    Sw/Ch
16-8-4

SWELL

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Rohrflute

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola
Celeste (49 pipes)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Koppelflute

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave
(12 pipes)

                                    Plein
Jeu III

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bassoon
(12 pipes)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Hautbois

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Clarion
(12 pipes)

                                    Tremulant

                                    Sw/Sw
16-4

PEDAL

                  32'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Untersatz

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Principal

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Subbass

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Lieblich
Gedeckt (ext, Sw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave
(ext)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Bourdon
(ext)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gedeckt
(Sw)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Choralbass
(ext)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bombarde
(ext, Gt)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bassoon
(Sw)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette
(Sw)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Clarion
(Sw)

                                    Gt/Ped
8-4

                                    Sw/Ped
8-4

                                    Ch/Ped
8-4

Orgues Létourneau Limitée, Saint-Hyacinthe,
Québec, has completed a new organ for the historic Chapel Royal of St.
Peter ad Vincula at H.M. Tower of London. The firm's opus 70, the instrument
features mechanical key action and both mechanical and electronic stop action.
The organ was designed to accompany the chapel's professional choir, as well as
provide leadership for worship services. It is built within the 1699 case by
Father Smith, which was restored in the Létourneau workshops to its
original dimensions. The facade pipes, composed of the 8' Open Diapason, are
made of 70% tin (as is the entire principal chorus) and are gilded with 24
carat gold by artisan Isabelle Hordequin. Manual naturals are covered with
bone, accidentals are ebony; pedal naturals of maple, accidentals of ebony;
manual/ pedal compass 56/32. The photo is reproduced by permission of Historic
Royal Palaces under license from the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery
Office.

 

Crown copyright: Historic Royal Palaces

GREAT

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bourdon
(stopped wood)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Open
Diapason

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Chimney
Flute

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Conical
Flute

                  22/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Nazard

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Fifteenth

                  13/5'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Tierce

                  11/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Mixture IV

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trumpet

                                    Tremulant

SWELL

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Violin
Diapason

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Stopped
Diapason (stopped wood)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Viola
da Gamba

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Voix
Celeste (TC)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Open
Flute

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Recorder

                  11/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Nineteenth

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Mixture
IV

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bassoon

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trumpet

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Oboe

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Clarion

                                    Tremulant

PEDAL

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Contrabass
(open wood)

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bourdon
(stopped wood)

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Bourdon
(1-12 stopped wood)

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Choral
Bass

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Posaune

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trumpet
(ext)

 

R.T. Swanson, Inc., of Grand Ledge, Michigan, has built a
new organ for the chapel of Michigan Lutheran Seminary, Saginaw, Michigan. The
school is affiliated with the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Its main
purpose is to train students in grades 9 through 12 who are anticipating
careers in the teaching and pastoral ministries. The organ will be used for
daily chapel services and as a teaching and practice instrument.

The two-manual organ comprises 20 ranks, 1186 pipes located
in a shallow chamber created from what was previously second level storage
space. Action is electro-mechanical. All pipes are new with the exception of
the Subbass, Holtzgedeckt/Gedecktbass, and Hohl-flöte, which are recycled
pipes which were revoiced to blend with the new. Facade pipes are polished zinc
and are from the bass 17 of the Great 8' Principal and the bass 18 of the Pedal
8' Octave. The console is located on a rolling platform on the chapel's main
floor and features a 32 memory combination action and out only MIDI. Compass is
61/32. The organ dedication was on August 26 and featured a performance by
Leonard Proeber.

GREAT

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Rohrflöte

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gemshorn

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Hohlflöte

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Superoctave

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Mixture
IV

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Cromorne

                                    Gt
16-UO-4

                                    Sw/Gt
16-8-4

                                    MIDI
on Gt

SWELL

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Holzgedeckt

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gemshorn

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Gemshorn
Celeste TC

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Principal

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Koppelflöte

                  22/3'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Nazard TC

                  2'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Blockflöte

                  13/5'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>     
Tierce TC

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Trompette

                                    Sw
16-UO-4

                                    MIDI
on Sw

PEDAL

                  32'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Resultant

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Subbass

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Gedecktbass

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Octave

                  8'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Bassflöte

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Superoctave

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Flöte

                  16'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>         
Bombarde

                  4'
style='mso-tab-count:1'>            
Clarion

                                    Gt/Ped
8, 4

                                    Sw/Ped
8, 4

                                    MIDI
on Ped

 

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