When we were first contacted by First Reformed Church of Scotia, we knew we had a special opportunity.  The first class reputation of the church and its broad music program is well known throughout the Capital Region.  Its musical history is rich with many well known choristers, musicians and organists. 

 

Furthermore, as if the music program at the church weren’t enough to make the potential project extremely worthwhile, the building itself is an esthetically beautiful place, with a space that rivals the acoustical settings of even the finest cathedrals and music halls around the country.

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It is indeed rare for an organ builder to have such a fine music program and wonderful building to work with; but, it is also quite rewarding to have a willing partner to explore the capabilities of the instrument and to be able to design a truly one of a kind, comprehensive specification.

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Being asked to design a unique one of a kind instrument, specifically for the church, the instrument needed to be capable of leading both traditional and contemporary styles of worship.  Plus, the instrument also had to have the ability to accompany choral groups and various sized instrumental groups as well.

 

Additionally, with a very talented organist resident at the church, the organ required the ability to be used as a concert and recital instrument.  This necessitated that the organ include ample tonal resources to allow for the performance of a vast portfolio of organ literature.

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Due to space limitations and the performance demands that will be placed on the instrument, it was decided that the design include both pipe and digital ranks.  The resulting specification we believe solves all of these requirements, and with room to grow with an expanding music program into the future.

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The rich and generously scaled multiple choruses throughout the organ divisions provide the foundation for leading congregational singing.  To provide the backbone for each of the organ’s divisions, full Principal choruses are specified, including the Antiphonal division which is installed over the rear Gallery.  Choral works are supported by an abundance of rich 8’ stops, colorful flutes, a large variety of solo reeds, and no less than 25 String and Celeste stops.

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As for the ability to serve as a recital instrument,  through 21st century digital technology, and with its 6 unique independent and properly scaled and voiced tonal specifications, the organ has the tonal resources to allow the organist to authentically perform any organ literature written during the last 5 and a half centuries.

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We are honored to have been commissioned to build a new instrument for First Reformed Church. Designing, building, and installing this instrument has been a totally rewarding experience for us!