Project 57

The Parsons organ recently installed at Emanuel Lutheran Church, New London, Wisconsin, represents one of those rare opportunities to acquire a relatively new organ, remanufacture the organ to feature an entirely new winding concept, reconfigure the existing divisions while adding a new manual division, make substantial upgrades to the console and control system and provide modifications to the casework to allow for better tonal egress. All this while ensuring that the organ assimilates perfectly into the architectural and structural characteristics of the sanctuary!

Beyond the many structural considerations, taking on a project of this nature requires a thorough understanding of the existing tonal resources and how those resources can be manipulated through repurposing, rescaling and revoicing to successfully render an entirely new tonal palette designed to serve a different liturgical format in a new and acoustically favorable room. We were fortunate in this respect to encounter pipes that were well made and minimally voiced. As with all our projects, the reeds of the organ were completely rebuilt or replaced. What started in 2001 as a neo baroque instrument of reasonable size has become an excellent example of an eclectic, American Classic organ having the gravitas and power to support Emanuel’s large congregation while possessing all the subtle characteristics and colors necessary to accompany the church’s choirs and soloists.

For an instrument of its size, the organ boosts three well-developed manual divisions including two complete principal choruses, a string and flute celeste, a hooded solo trumpet situated in the enclosed Choir division (also playable from the Great and Pedal), and a large independent pedal division.

Centered against the back wall of the gallery where it speaks with authority to the choirs and congregation, the organ is capable of achieving everything that we, as the organ builder, had hoped for. We are thankful for the consummate work of Scott R. Riedel and Associates in the firm’s capacity as acoustician and organ consultant and for the constant support of Pastor Mark Tiefel, Mr. Joe Dexter and the entire staff and congregation at Emanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church.