Rebuilds - Pipe organ rebuilding, restoration and relocation

Pipe Organ Rebuilding

A pipe organ can last many lifetimes. One only has to look to Europe to see fine instruments dating back to the 16th century that play as beautifully today as they did hundreds of years ago.

Most often, pipe organ rebuilding is necessary as perishables deteriorate over a time period of approximately forty to fifty years. Leather becomes porous, felt becomes worn and relay systems show evidence of wear as contacts fatigue or break off. It is through the maintenance and repair of these items that a pipe organ's service life can be virtually extended indefinitely.

Organists are usually the first to realize that an organ is beginning to deteriorate. Sluggish action overall sometimes points to leather porosity. Frequent non-sounding notes or notes that do not stop playing (ciphers) also evidence the need to plan for a pipe organ rebuild.

As the church forms a committee to oversee the process of organ rebuilding it is important that committee members have some knowledge of the pipe organ in their church. A successful rebuild starts with a competent committee to sort through proposals, check references and finally choose a reputable firm for rebuilding the pipe organ.

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Pipe Organ Restoration

When it comes time for a pipe organ to be rebuilt there are many questions about updating, additions and/or tonal modifications. While certain organs might require such upgrades, others deserve a faithful restoration. Many fine pipe organs were altered unsatisfactorily chasing trendy fads and many of those organs have since been dismantled or returned to their previous state.

With a faithful restoration the main goal is always preservation. Therefore no additions nor tonal modifications should be made. Another key differentiation between a rebuild and a restoration is that in a restoration, the original action, be it tracker, electro-pneumatic or bar and slider would be reconditioned and retained. It is acceptable and advisable, especially in the case of an older instrument, to add or fortify catwalks and other access points. Anything that can be done to help facilitate the upkeep of the organ is looked at, addressed and completed so long as it does not interfere with the original, historic character of the instrument.

An authentically restored pipe organ is a true treasure as it allows us to hear the work of the great builders from years past just as they intended. It is a link to our past that will last and be enjoyed for many more generations to come.

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Pipe Organ Relocation

It is unfortunate, but sometimes churches close, merge or move and they do not bring their pipe organ to the new location. In other cases a new organ installation, building renovations or even a private residential estate relocation results in fine pipe organs becoming available for sale, donation or even for free. This regrettable decision could become an opportune time for you or your church to acquire a quality vintage instrument at a significantly reduced price when compared to an entirely new pipe organ.

When an organ becomes available for relocation, it must first be evaluated. Our qualified professionals will do a comprehensive assessment of the instrument, making sure that the pipes, chests and mechanical systems are functioning correctly and appropriate for the intended space. Once the evaluation is complete, a proposal is provided for the relocation of the instrument and any suggested modifications to suit the organ for its new home.

For the move itself, the organ is systematically disassembled. The pipes are then carefully packed using proper packing materials in appropriate containers, using time-honored methods to ensure safe and damage-free transport. We relocate consoles, platforms, blowers, chests, pedal pipes, swell shades and ultimately anything related to the organ. We move organs nationwide, it does not matter if you live in New York and want an organ that becomes available in Florida, we can move it for you. Depending on the scope of the project, the organ is either delivered directly to the new location or to our shop for storage and improvements. In either case, the organ is thoroughly cleaned, reinstalled and brought to life once again.

Please contact us if you know of a pipe organ that needs to be relocated, if you are interested in buying a relocated organ or if you are looking to incorporate vintage pipework into a new instrument. In any case, with the proper planning and professional techniques employed by Elsener Organ Works, Inc, the resulting pipe organ will be a noteworthy improvement over an undistinguished electronic substitute.

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Rebuilding, Restoration, Relocation