The Historic Odell Organ in theTroy Savings Bank Music Hall

[Chiff Drawbar]

Mr. Odell,

Ienjoyed perusing your updated website and wasespeciallytaken with the article on the history and current status of the historicOdell organ in the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall in Troy, New York.

Over the years, I have made severalpilgrimages to the hall; the beauty of its acoustics is simply overwhelming.During one visit, I was allowed to play the organ. Only a few notes on any given stop were sounding at that time, butthere was no doubt in my mind that a fascinating and significant instrument is sitting there waiting for a complete restoration.

I know the hall struggles financially, given its out-of-the-way location (nearAlbany), but I'm wondering what it would take to bring this instrument back to life (andperhaps expand it as well). Has there been a real effort to raise serious money?With some of the finest acoustics in the world, what a showcase this organ could be for your firm and the hall itself.

[odellorgans]

Re: The Historic Odell Organ in theTroy Savings Bank Music Hall



If you read the articles on our site you are aware that a great deal of work has been done on the organ and it is now in much better condition than it has in many decades.

 The Troy Savings Bank Music Hall situation is complicated. There are at least three separate entities involved (the Bank, the Music Association and a Private Charitable Foundation) and each has their own agenda. That we, along with a consortium of other builders and volunteers organized by the OHS, were able to do as much as we did was something of a minor miracle.  With a minor exception for the new blower (a rebuilt Spencer), all of the work that was done was donated.  I would estimate our contribution to the project alone was worth at least $30,000.

 It is important to understand that this recent work was more "triage" than anything else.  It was enough to get the organ into proper playing condition have a concert, and raise awareness about the organ in the community.  I know the OHS is working to keep the lines of communication open.  That's really all I can say for now.

[odellorgans]

Re: The Historic Odell Organ in theTroy Savings Bank Music Hall

A video clip from the 2006 OHS Convention featuring the organ has been posted here on YouTube.

[Chiff Drawbar]

Re: The Historic Odell Organ in theTroy Savings Bank Music Hall



Right now, I'm seeing a note on YouTubethatsays "This video has been removed by the user." I do, however, have the option to watch "Hipster Olympics" or "Fantasy Football: The Rap."

I'm not very good with this computer stuff, so maybe I messed up.[*-)]

[Austin766]

Re: The Historic Odell Organ in theTroy Savings Bank Music Hall

Nope, you didn't screw up, I got the same error message.

[FrenchHorn8]

Re: The Historic Odell Organ in theTroy Savings Bank Music Hall

maybe Vic removed it to correct the name of the piece???  I watched the video last night

[odellorgans]

Re: The Historic Odell Organ in theTroy Savings Bank Music Hall

Apologies, everyone, I fixed the link above. Apparently Vic took the link down and reposted it due to an error in the opening credits... link should work now.