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Foley-Baker, Inc., removes Washington National Cathedral organ

August 14, 2024
Portions of the organ of Washington National Cathedral to be loaded into a truck
Portions of the organ of Washington National Cathedral to be loaded into a truck

Foley-Baker, Inc., has completed removal of the organ at Washington National Cathedral, Washington D.C. With some parts dating back to the original 1938 installation, the organ showed much deterioration after decades of heavy use. 

The best extant pipework will be combined with new stops to create a 153-rank instrument. The design seeks to optimize the organ chambers, improving tonal egress from the triforium as much as possible. The existing console will be rebuilt, and a second, mobile console will be provided. Work has already begun on reconditioning pipework. 

Removal was accomplished in segments that started in April 2023 and ended in August 2024. A very carefully organized event, the total time invested was less than four weeks. Reinstallation, also to be completed in stages, is scheduled to begin in 2026 and will continue until 2028. 

For information: foleybaker.com

 

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