By the end of the first week, you can see the structure of the Swell box… you will not be able to see this after the organ is completed, as it will be behind the case and facade pipes. The Swell is a division of the organ that enables pipes to be “under expression”. A foot control on the organ console controls the opening and closing of the swell shades. Not only volume, but the timbre of the pipes change subtly as the shades operate. Lights will also be installed in the interior, as it can get pretty dark in there!
To the left of the Swell division will be the Great. This division normally contains the pipes that will be accompanying our hymns and liturgy. Volume and timbre control here is governed by the selection of ranks by the organist. More on that as we see those pipes go in. In front of the Swell will be the Positiv, which is a smaller division that provides solo stops and pipes that will accompany the choir and soloists. Many of the ranks from our previous instrument will now be found in the Positiv.
You can see in the photo some of the other bass pipes, towards the right wall. These are from our previous organ, and will provide good support for the rest of the organ, along with the Holz Violone on the left wall. The pipes, although supported on the wall, actually rest directly on the windchests.
Along the back wall will be the pipes of the 16′ Basson, which is part of a rank of pipes that emulate the oboe and bassoon of the orchestra. You can also see in the photo above the built in ladder for access to the Swell box.
A look at the progress from the floor of the sanctuary:
…remember that pretty much none of what you see in the above photo will be visible when the organ is completed. The console is resting temporarily on it’s casters towards the left. It will be movable to allow the placement of the various instrumental and vocal forces used throughout the year. Thanks again to KW Janne for these photos.
Faith Lutheran's New Organ 