Cathedral News
Restoring and Protecting the Organ
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Pipes in the organ chamber being crated |
June 9, 2010
The Aeolian-Skinner Organ that has enriched the worship and empowered world famous concerts was being compromised as pieces of the roof over the two organ chambers began falling into the pipes. The need was urgent so right after Easter, we began the repair and restoration. In addition to repairing the roof, this work includes replacing worn leather components of the playing mechanism, overhauling the wind system and replacing missing pipes.
We will also be replacing several sets of pipes installed after 1952 that are out of character with the original instrument. We would also like to install sets of pipes originally planned for, but never executed. Total cost of the project is projected at $1,500,000, split about evenly between roof repair and the maintenance and restoration of this powerful organ. The project is expected to be completed by late fall 2010.
During this period of work on the organ, we are grateful to the Rodgers Instrument Corporation for the use of a Rodgers Masterpiece organ.
To be a partner in the restoration of the only organ of its kind west of Chicago, click on the button below. Thanks to this restoration, Grace Cathedral will continue to provide world class music to the Bay Area.
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The early 1930's concrete roof opened for access |