YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED to an informative evening of pizza and pipes! RSVP Signup Sheet at church or online: https://bit.ly/elim-pizza-pipes
Join us on Saturday, September 30th at 5:00pm. Enjoy a FREE pizza dinner (donations for pizza welcome but not required)followed by a brief presentation led by Pastor Seth Perry, organ committee member Bill Strusinski and Elim organist Brian Voss. After the presentation the floor will be opened to a Q&A session. We welcome your questions and open dialogue!
About Elim's Pipe Organ Originally built in 1930, Elim's organ was last rebuilt in 1974 and expanded in 1979 with used parts. With almost 50 years of continuous service, the organ is at the end of its servicable life. The organ must be rebuilt to ensure reliable service in the future, preserve Elim's history, tradition and legacy and to inspire Christian faith to current and future worshipers.
Funding and Feasibility Study Fundraising for Elim's pipe organ project began in 2019 and has generated a healthy balance. Additionally, a Feasibility Study is ongoing. This study will help Elim determine the capacity it has to undertake a variety of projects, of which the pipe organ rebuild and expansion is a major component. Elim is indebted to everyone for their faithfulness and generosity.Thank you!
What Does Organ Rebuild and Expansion Mean?
Modern pipe organ design uses methods and techiques learned from centuries of organ building and also includes modern electrical, mechanical and pneumatic technologies. These items wear out over time, usually after 40-50 years of service. Additionally, technological advancements such as digital controls and innovative designs mean that newer systems are more reliable, offer greater longevity and provide enhanced musician support.
The best time to consider revisions to the organ's specification is when it is built new or when it is rebuilt. Adding or changing the types of pipes in the organ can alter its sound in a highly beneficial way. This does not mean the organ will get louder, but it does mean it would provide considerably more dynamic and colorful sound. This helps enhance the worship experience and make it more meaningful to everyone.
Elim's Organ Committee
Elim's Pipe Organ Committee was established by council in April, 2022. Meeting at regular intervals, the committee has invested hundreds of hours gathering details and advice from over 15 organ buliders and subject matter experts. Their findings can be found in two comprehensive reports and other communications.
On several occasions committee members took a direct hands-on approach, traveling as far as Washington State, New Jersey and other midwest locales to learn more about pipe organs, research and obtain materials to assist in the rebuild project.
Options and Possible Solutions Three possible solutions for the organ will be presented at the September 30th meeting. These options are fluid, meaning everything is open to discussion, changes are possible and nothing is 'set in stone'. Your input and advice will help shape Elim's future in music and how the pipe organ will continue to play a role in Elim's ministry.