Zion German Lutheran Church
125 Henry Street
New York City: Brooklyn,
NY
11201 US
Organ ID: 6820
Updated through online information from Martin. -- During the 1972 - 1974 rebuild, the original instrument was kept in historic condition, as the then incumbent organist / director of music (my father) insisted. No tonal or mechanical changes were done, although they were suggested. Hence this is one of the remaining (possibly only) examples of an unaltered M&A patented Tubular Pneumatic / Tracker combinations. The connections to the chambers is via lead tubes and the console is pure tracker. It is also one of the (perhaps) largest instruments by that builder. We had a great "doctor" of maintenance, renowned by colleagues worldwide for being the best of all, who meticulously maintained her until my father accepted another position. The current technician was called by the subsequent organists and has been there since.
Presently, the instrument's console is currently in need of major restoration (complete rebuilding) and limits exist with playability. This is due to basic maintenance and building condition issues during the past 22 years which has affected the deterioration in the console. The pneumatics in the chambers appear to be fully functional and the leather intact. Highly qualified individuals have been contacted to assist in the restoration and preservation effort. The current technician suggests converting the console to an electric system. Again, as in the 1972-1974 rebuild, the original tonal specifications will be maintained, and hopefully we can also restore and preserve the mechanical (tracker) action console and tubular pneumatics to the chambers. A large undertaking and worthy of this magnificent example is the turn of the (20th) century instrument technology. As the second generation organist for this congregation, it is a privilege to "come home" after a two decade absence and be part of this project.
Updated through online information from Connor Annable.
Status Note: There 1989
Historic Organs Recital Fall 1989.