For over twenty years our Allen digital organ has performed
faithfully through literally thousands of worship services and parish
musical events. But every instrument has its time. The decision to finally
replace the old Allen electronic organ with a hand-crafted Bigelow pipe
organ was met with much joy and anticipation from musicians and parishioners
alike.
However, before the new organ could be installed the loft of
the sanctuary had to be be substantially reinforced for the increased weight
of the pipes. Then the old instrument needed to be be carefully removed from
its position in the loft and prepared for its journey to Rochester, NY
where, after rehabilitation, it will serve Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.
Below is an array of photographs of the disassembly and
removal from St. Peter's of our Allen organ. Click on each thumbnail picture
for an enlargement:
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The "before" shot, taken in the Fall, 2002, shows the choir loft with the old Allen digital organ in place |
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Before new installation the floor of the choir loft must be opened to reinforce the joists. |
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The new supporting beam in place in the rail; the temporary support structure used while new footings were poured for the columns. |
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Organ builder Michael Bigelow (kneeling) working with (L to R) carpenter Robert Metzger, contractor Arthur Willson (Foster-Willson, Inc.), and structural engineer Lisa Conklin (of Keast and Hood). |
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Organist Charles Schreiber, from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Rochester NY, gets a tour of the Allen from Neal Hartranft (Allen Organ Co.) before it is moved to his church. |
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On April 21, 2003, final preparations are made for the disassembly and removal of the Allen. |
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Speakers are disconnected from the Allen. |
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Last-minute preparations before removal. |
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Speaker connections are severed. |
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Speakers are finally removed. |
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Martha Johnson stands guard over her domain. |
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A portable hoist is positioned into place. |
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The Allen console is now loaded onto the lift, ready for its descent. |
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"Be not afraid", and steady as she goes. |
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The final descent of the Allen. |
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The Allen is on its way to Rochester, and St. Peter's is now prepared for the arrival and assembly of the new Bigelow organ. |
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