Modernizing is not quite the word. "Upgrading" would be a better word
to use in describing the plan. Only two persons wrote to say they did
not agree with updating the obsolete pedal position.
The intent was to move the original flat pedal board 22" to the left, so
that the pedals would be in a more standardized position, _or_ to build
a second and detachable 14 note pedal board that could be placed in the
standardized position for recital purposes, and then disconnected when
not in use.
As it is, the 14-note flat pedal board is located about 22" to the right
and is not located in the standard place where contemporary organists
can play them comfortably. The Historical Society, which owns the
organ, is composed of non-musicians and cannot understand why, when
they hire an organist, they take one look and head for the door.
At the moment the Historical Society has decided to keep the organ
original, and substitute an electronic organ for recital purposes.
They also have turned down my idea of building a hidden interior roof
over the top of organ to protect it from roof leaks which is so
prevalent with the complex roof. They tell me, "The roof is new and
won't leak."
I have withdrawn from the project.
Bruce Clark
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