Karn-Warren Organ Co.
1907

This entry represents the rebuilding of an existing organ, and conversion of the playing action from mechanical to tubular-pneumatic. Identified through online information from Andrew Henderson (December 6, 2024).

From The Daily Province (Vancouver, BC, March 30, 1907): "The new pipe organ which has been in process of construction for St. Andrew's Church will be opened and dedicated at the Easter services to-morrow. The enlarging of the church last year made it necessary to rebuild the former organ, and advantage was taken of the opportunity to bring it up to date in every particular. In appearance it will be somewhat similar to the former one; the idea being to retain the distinctive features of the case and tone, which were of superior quality, while increasing very materially the power and variety. The choir arch has been widened and the open diapason pedal pipes have been brought forward so that the enlarged organ now completely fills it. The consol [sic] has been placed so that the organist can have his whole choir in full view. The organ has been fitted with new tubular pneumatic action, which is operated from the keyboard by compressed air and may be described as a complicated arrangement of innumerable bellows; every key and coupler is connected with the instrument by a lead tube. It is interesting to note that more than two miles of this tubing is used in the construction of the organ. The touch is light and pianolike."

It is unknown why this organ was replaced so soon, by Casavant Freres Op. 390, in 1910. Potentially complications resulting from retrofitting tubular pneumatic action, or the lack of power in the enlarged building made it necessary? A note from a newspaper article in 1910 mentioned that St. Andrew's had been without an organ for about a year, so it's possible mechanical problems were the issue It is very likely that pipework from this instrument was included in the new Casavant organ in 1910.