Fowler Organ Company: Profiles

This instrument was in need of major mechanical work. Many problems had combined to make it nearly unplayable. We restored the casework and provided a complete new action, including wind system and solid state control. Much of the existing pipework was in good condition and responded favorably to revoicing. Minor pipework replacements were made as necessary. The control system allows for future MIDI implementation and includes multiple memory combinations and a transposer. Musically, this small instrument affords excellent variety and dynamic range in support of congregational singing and liturgy.

This congregation found the cost of a new instrument to be greater than the resources available. We had been working with them, planning a new instrument for several years but it always seemed to be just out of reach. The question was raised as to the feasibility of finding a good used instrument. Having undertaken a number of successful projects based on used instruments, we felt that this could provide a responsible option for this church.

In consultation with the church, the framework for the project was put into place and we began to search for a suitable instrument. It took a little more than a year to find this instrument in Jackson, Mississippi which was being replaced by a new larger pipe organ. We had a very short time to make a decision and fortunately, all of the "ducks" were in order. An offer was made and accepted. We removed the instrument in August (Mississippi in August is hot, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise!) and rebuilt it during the following winter. Installation took place in the late summer and early fall of 1995 with dedication at the end of October.

Like all good things, it took time, a lot of hard work and the fending off of a few skeptics. The result is a wonderful instrument which serves a growing suburban congregation and a diverse music program. Perhaps the highest compliment paid to our work was that of an "arch-skeptic" who is now probably the instrument's biggest fan.

Portland is a small community where the arts are very much appreciated. This instrument is the cornerstone of an active and diverse church music program which includes multiple choirs and (praise be!) a number of young organ students. The instrument's color and versatility allow it to comfortably render music from all periods with excellent effect.

Galena is an historic treasure of wonderful houses and churches dating to the early 1800s. The organ is the only instrument to have served in this historic building, the "New" church, which dates from 1848. The story goes that the organ had to be shipped from New York to New Orleans and up the Mississippi river to Galena as railroads had yet to be built. Over the years some unfortunate attempts at repair had been made resulting in the loss of the original winding system. Restoration included the construction of an entirely new mechanical wind supply, antique ivory key coverings, regraining of the faux-finished case, gold leaf for the front pipes, complete action restoration and meticulous tonal finishing. The result is a charming sound from another era which serves the musical needs of this church amazingly well.

Fowler Organ Company
1061 Hickory Road
Lansing, MI 48906

(517) 485-3748
pipes@fowlerorgan.com