Historic Organs

[Guest]

What do you consider a historic organ? Here is a real life example. The organ is the second oldest extant organ by the builder who built over 1,100 organs. Originally, it was tubular-pneumatic keyaction and presumably mechanical stop action with a tubular-pneumatic pedal.

However, the organ was relocated and at this time it was electrified, received a detached console and an electric blower replaced the water engine, and all the casework was removed. The bi-fold reservoir still remains but the feeder was removed. This is probably only one of a few existing examples of slider chests built by this company. Also, the stenciled façade remains in pristine condition.

Has the historical significance of this organ been lost or is it worthy of preservation?

[Guest]

Re: Historic Organs



I'm not an expert, but I think much of it's historical siginificancehas been lost. It has not been maintained or restored to the original mechanics, the console was electrified, moved, the casework removed, and the original blowing system is not intact.

I am also wondering as to the originality of the pipe work and the tonal work.

Worthy of preservation?Well it's originalitymay bestretching itin my opinion. But regardless, it certainly is worthy to be repaired and/or rebuilt if need be, and played for many listeners to enjoy. The thought of any pipe organ going in the dumpster makes me shudder.

[soubasse32]

Re: Historic Organs

Tubular-pneumatics are not necessarily worth saving unless it is one of the few remaining examples by the builder.

The removal of casework, while regrettable, does not diminish the greater value of an old organ.  The famous Cavaillé-Coll from the Paris Trocadéro stands without its original casework, action, console, and blower.  What detracts from this organ is the acoustic of the new hall and the unfortunate additions made in the intervening years.

A blower adds very little to the value of an old organ, unless it is VERY old and unique.  And serviceable.

I can think of several examples of well-known organs that have lost their actions, consoles, blowers, and casework: The Farrand & Votey/Aeolian-Skinner at Hill Auditorium comes to mind.  The great organ at Methuen has its original casework, but everything else was radically changed.  Are they "historic"?  I think most people would say so, although they may not fit the true definition.

"Historic" is wonderful, but "partially historic" is also a good thing.  It also helps to know if the organ is a good instrument.  Sometimes the old part is not very good, and is improved immensely by additions.  Other times, parts of the old instrument are of such significance that they impress us in spite of later additions.  Quite a few organs fall into that category.

[NYCFarmboy]

Re: Historic Organs

I myself think as long as the pipes themselves remain from the original builder you have something VERY significant, especially if they are un-revoiced/original.

I don't really care myself whether an organ still uses a water blower...of the over one hundred of organs I've photographed I've never seen one with a intact water blower although I have came across several that were electrified.

Same on action...I myself don't think its a big deal concerning the console/action, as long as the voicing/pipes remain original...then you have something speaking to you from history.