Pipe Organ Database

Updated by JP Meyer, who has heard or played the organ.
Since previous entry: New organ builder, William DeGothsier, has been hired by Old Zion to complete the restoration/renovation of the organ originally started by Colin Walsh (abandoned project). All divisions of the organ are now working, with a repaired magnetic action on the Great, Swell, and Choir. Winding issues and pressure continue to be addressed, but are not having a highly negative effect on playability. The Echo Unit has also been reinstated and will be further repaired to full use. Shaders and Tremolos will be replaced within the coming year, and a new and/or refurbished console is being planned for.

Updated through online information from JP Meyer. -- Over the past year, the winding system was renovated, including the addition of a secondary blower, rebuilt winding lines, and rebuilt wind chests. This year, the major renovations will be completed including the replacement of the pneumatic stop action on the swell, choir, and great divisions with magnetic action, the implementation of a new SSL control system, and the installation of a rebuilt console. This information comes from JP Meyer, current organist for the congregation of Old Zion Lutheran Church.

Updated through online information from JP Meyer. -- The organ is currently being renovated by Colin Walsh, pipe-organ builder in Philadelphia. Several years ago, all pipes were removed, cleaned, retuned, and reseated, the chests and sliders were also cleaned and repaired in place. As of 5/10/13, the winding has almost been completely renovated: new chests were built, with new wind delivery systems.

Updated through on-line information from James A. Taylor, Jr.. -- This organ has been recently rebuilt by a local firm in Philly.

This entry represents the rebuilding of an existing organ. -- From current organist J.P. Meyer: "St. Matthew-s was an English-speaking daughter congregation of St. Michael and Zion (our parent/original congregation from 1742). In 1984 the congregations of St. Matthew's and St. Michael and Zion merged to become 'Old Zion Lutheran Church' and began worshipping in the sanctuary built for St. Matthew's congregation."