Coulter - Organbuilders

Decatur Presbyterian Church - New Console

2011-09-25T08:51:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce the newly completed four manual console for Decatur Presbyterian Church. This console features quartersawn white oak, American black walnut, ebony and rosewood. 160 stops controlled by the IOTI Virtuoso system and keys with bone and ebony coverings. We are happy to present 'Amelia' to Decatur Presbyterian Church and the world.

South Highland Presbyterian Church

2011-03-14T17:22:00.000-07:00

South Highland Presbyterian Church chapel - Birmingham, Alabama

The E. M. Skinner organ company built in 1926 its Opus 576 for the Ensley-Highland Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama. The instrument served this congregation, with some changes, until the church was closed by the Presbytery in 1991. The organ lanquished in a crumbling building until South Highland Presbyterian was afforded the ability to obtain the pipe organ. We were contracted by South Highland to remove this instrument to our shop and present a proposal to South Highland Presbyterian for its future.

The chapel at South Highland is one of considerable charm, and fine musicial potential. The current status of the electronic organ warranted its replacement. With the Skinner organ now in the possession of South Highland, it seemed a logical choice to install in the chapel. We were honored to have been contracted by South Highland to build a new chapel organ for them utilizing the Skinner organ as a resource.

Given the different requirements for installation, and the condition of the Skinner chests, new windchests will be built in a sympathetic style to those of E. M. Skinner. In this instrument, the existing console and keyboards will be retained. The Great organ will be located on the Gallery wall, along the center axis of the room for proper tonal egress. This division will feature a new Principal chorus of high content tin for a refined and elegant sound. The Swell and Pedal organs will be located in the chancel area. All the pipes, old and new, will reflect our belief that every pipe should speak with a rich, full sound that blends with others. It is sounds like these that best work with and support the human voice.

South Highland Presbyterian Church, Chapel
Robert I. Coulter - Organbuilders
Opus 9
Skinner Organ Company
Opus 576
II - 23

Great Organ
16' Lieblich Gedeckt
8' Principal (tin, en facade)
8' Chimney Flute (extension)
8' Salicional (Swell)
8' Voix Celeste (Swell)
4' Octave
4' Flute Harmonic (Swell)
2 2/3' Twelfth
2' Fifteenth
1 3/5' Seventeenth
III-IV - Mixture (1 1/3')
16' Contre Trompette
8' Trompette (extension)
8' Flugelhorn (Swell)
Tremulant

Swell Organ
8' Salicional
8' Voix Celeste (tenor c)
8' Aeoline
8' Aeoline Celeste (tenor c)
8' Gedeckt
4' Principal
4' Flute Harmonic
2 2/3' Nazard
2' Flautino
1 3/5' Tierce
8' Trompette (Great)
8' Flugelhorn
Tremulant

Pedal Organ
32' Resultant
16' Subbass
16' Lieblich Gedeckt (Great)
8' Octave
8' Bourdon (extension)
8' Gedeckt (Swell)
4' Choral Bass (extension)
4' Flute Harmonic (Swell)
16' Contre Trompette (Great)
8' Trompette (Great)
8' Flugelhorn (Swell)

2011-01-10T05:37:00.000-08:00

Decatur Presbyterian Church - Atlanta, Georgia

Beginning in 2004, we were asked by Organist-Choirmaster Matthew McMahan to care for the two Austin organs at Decatur Presbyterian Church. The sanctuary organ being from 1974 and of 58 ranks. An immediate concern was the rapid deterioration of the Austin console.

A plan was soon thereafter put forward for replacement of the Austin console with a new, four manual draw knob console. This console will feature the Integrated Organ Technologies Virtuoso control system. The white oak exterior will be finished and outfitted to both blend with and enhance the sanctuary. The console will also feature Syndyne draw knob units for an elegant feel, along with tracker touch keys.

Along with the plans for a console, we began working with Mr. McMahan for revisions and additions to the tonal scheme. The instrument, while effective in the performance of some literature, needed enhancement for choral accompaniment and even for congregational singing. To that end, limited digital voice additions were made in the 1990's in an attempt to round out the ensemble.

Working in complete conjunction with Mr. McMahan, we have devised a new specification, with additions and judicious revisions to existing resources to make an instrument that is eclectic, as well as versatile and suitable for any setting. As with all of our instruments, we strive for a cohesive ensemble sound that is made of individual stops of independent character, but that all strive for a relaxed, singing style. In this manner, different colors enhance rather than compete with each other, coming together into what we believe are exciting ensemble instruments.

Decatur Presbyterian Church
Austin Organ Company, Opus 2561
Robert I. Coulter - Organbuilders
Opus 8
IV - 87

Great Organ
16' Principal (ext, Spitz Principal)
8' Octave (Pedal)
8' Open Diapason
8' Spitz Principal (Choir)
8' Gemshorn
8' Harmonic Flute
8' Bourdon
4' Octave
4' Spitz Flute
2 2/3' Twelfth
2' Super Octave
1 3/5' Seventeenth
IV Fourniture (1 1/3')
III Cymbale (1/2')
16' Trombone
8' Tromba (extension)
4' Clarion (extension)
8' Harmonic Tuba (Choir)
V Grand Chorus (Choir)
8' Fanfare Trompettes (Swell & Choir, Melody only)
Chimes

Positiv Organ
16' Gedackt
8' Erzahler
8' Nason Flute
8' Gedackt (extension)
8' Flauto Dolce
8' Flute Celeste
4' Principal
4' Koppel Flute
2' Block Flute
1' Sifflute
II Tertian (1 1/3' & 1 3/5')
III-IV Scharff (1')
16' Kontra Fagott
8' Krummhorn
8' Fagott (extension)
Tremulant

Pedal Organ
32' Violone (WTD)
32' Bourdon (Resultant)
16' Open Diapason
16' Principal (Great)
16' Bourdon (Choir)
16' Bourdon Doux (Swell)
16' Gedackt (Positiv)
16' Holz Gedeckt (Gallery)
10 2/3' Quint (from Principal)
8' Octave
8' Spitz Principal (Choir)
8' Doppel Flute (Choir)
8' Flute a Cheminee (Swell)
8' Erzahler (Positiv)
4' Choral Bass
4' Nachthorn
2' Cor d'Nuit (extension)
IV Mixture (2 2/3')
32' Contra Bombarde (WTD)
32' Contra Fagotto (WTD)
16' Bombarde
16' Trombone (Great)
16' Contre Basson (Swell)
16' Kontra Fagott (Positiv)
8' Trompette (extension)
8' Trumpet (Great)
8' Basson (Swell)
8' Harmonic Tuba (Choir)
8' Fanfare Tuba (Gallery)
4' Clairon (Great)
4' Basson (Swell)

Swell Organ
16' Bourdon Doux
8' Violin Diapason
8' Salicional (slotted)
8' Voix Celeste (slotted, GG)
8' Flute a Cheminee (extension)
4' Principal
4' Flute Harmonique
2 2/3' Nazard
2' Quarte de Nazard
1 3/5' Tierce
III-V Plein Jeu (2')
16' Contre Basson (extension)
8' Trompette
8' Basson
4' Clairon
8' Voix Humane
8' Harmonic Tuba (Choir)
Tremulant
V Grand Chorus (Choir)
8' Fanfare Trompettes (Swell & Choir Chorus reeds at 8')

Choir Organ
16' Bourdon
8' Octave (Pedal)
8' Spitz Principal
8' Viola d'Gambe
8' Viola Celeste
8' Doppel Flute (extension)
4' Principal
4' Triangular Flute
2 2/3' Nazard
2' Doublette
2' Octavin (Harmonic)
1 3/5' Tierce
IV Choral Mixture (2')
16' Kontra Fagott (Positiv)
8' Trompette
8' Fagott (Positiv)
8' English Horn
8' Clarinet (free reed)
8' Harmonic Tuba (high pressure)
V Grand Chorus (8', 4', 2 2/3', 2', 1 3/5')
8' Fanfare Trompettes (Swell & Grand Choeur)
Tremulant

Gallery Organ (floating)
16' Holz Gedeckt
8' Principal
8' Gedeckt (extension)
4' Octave
4' Flute Harmonique (WTD)
2' Super Octave
III Mixture (1 1/3')
8' Fagotto (WTD)
8' Fanfare Tuba (WTD)

Trinity UMC, Spartanburg South Carolina

2010-11-06T19:02:00.000-07:00

Trinity United Methodist Church - Spartanburg, South Carolina

Beginning in 2008, we were asked by Organist/Choirmaster Justin Addington to care for the 1988 Moller pipe organ installed at Trinity United Methodist Church. Upon our first inspections of the instrument, we found it to be in good mechanical condition, but with rough, and uneven voicing.

With input from Mr. Addington, we devised a plan to remedy the voicing of the existing instrument, while also making a few tonal revisions and the addition of a hooded, 8' Festival Trumpet. In our work, we will relocate a few stops, while adjusting the balance within the Mixtures and voicing the Great Principal chorus in the rich, graceful manner our organs are becoming known for.

The new 8' Turner Trumpet will serve as the Solo voice for this instrument. These pipes are built to our exacting specification, and feature hooded resonators to properly project the tone into the church. They also feature our custom shallot schedule to allow for the maximum rich, fundamental tone, while still retaining power sufficient to serve as a solo voice against the full Great Principal chorus. In our instruments, we do not feel the solo reed should obliterate the full organ ensemble, but rather serve as a solo against the Great chorus, but also serve as the last ensemble voice when added to full organ. In this way, these voices are never too loud, nor too brash, but rather enhance many musical situations.

Trinity United Methodist Church
M.P. Moller Opus 10759
Robert I. Coulter - Organbuilders
Opus 7
III - 26

Great Organ
16' Lieblich Gedeckt (Swell, added)
8' Open Diapason (revoiced)
8' Bourdon (revoiced)
4' Octave (revoiced)
2' Super Octave (from Positiv, revoiced)
IV - Mixture (revoiced)
8' Turner Trumpet (hooded, NEW)
8' Minor Trumpet (Swell)
Chimes

Pedal Organ
32' Resultant (New)
16' Diapason
16' Lieblich Gedeckt (Swell)
8' Octave (extension)
8' Chimney Flute (Swell)
4' Choral Bass (extension)
4' Chimney Flute (Swell)
16' Double Trumpet (Swell, extension)
8' Turner Trumpet (Great)
8' Minor Trumpet (Swell)
4' Clarion (Swell)

Swell Organ
16' Lieblich Gedeckt
8' Gemshorn (revoiced)
8' Gemshorn Celeste (tenor C)
8' Chimney Flute
4' Principal
4' Flute (new extension 8')
2' Flautino
III - Fourniture (revoiced)
8' Minor Trumpet (revoiced)
Tremulant

Positiv Organ
8' Wood Gedeckt (revoiced)
4' Koppel Flute
2' Block Flute (from Great, revoiced)
1 1/3' Larigot III - Sharp Mixture (revoiced)
8' Krummhorn
8' Turner Trumpet (Great)
Tremulant

C13 - C61 of the 8' Turner Trumpet on our voicing machine. The bottom octave was on the offset and outside the line of focus. What a sound these pipes make! Built to a scale of Cavaille'-Coll, and voiced from scratch in our Atlanta, Georgia shop.

Saint Andrews Roman Catholic Church - Montgomery, Alabama

2010-05-02T14:47:00.000-07:00

We were honored to have been contacted in early 2010 to inspect the historic Moller organ at Saint Andrew's Catholic Church in Montgomery, Alabama. This instrument is of mechanical action, and was built when the church was constructed in 1907. As these instruments were often built for 'remote' locales, they were of robust construction. This instrument is mostly in its original form, with the addition of a 2' Super Octave on an electric chest as the only tonal change.

Upon our inspection, we found the organ in largely good condition. There are, however, numerous problems in the key and coupler actions that have proven troublesome for sometime apparently. Also, there are signs of attempts at voicing/regulation to the Great 8' Dulciana, with the result of many pipes not speaking at all. Pipe voicing is a delicate art, and shouldn't be delved into lightly.

In this minor restoration, we will correct problems with the actions, regulate voicing as needed, and check all the wood pipes for proper packing/speech. We will also revoice the added 2' Super Octave. These pipes add a brillance to the organ, but in a manner that does not blend with the other 103 year old pipes. We believe additions to existing organs should be done in a tonal sympathetic manner, and should reflect the existing style of the instrument.

We are honored to care for this historic pipe organ, and look forward to ensuring another 100 years of reliable service to the congretation of Saint Andrew's.

Saint Andrew's Catholic Church
M.P. Moller pipe organ
1907
II - 9

Great Organ
8' Open Diapason
8' Melodia
8' Dulciana
4' Octave
2' Super Octave (not original, revoiced)

Pedal Organ
16' Bourdon

Swell Organ
8' Violin Diapason
8' Salicional
8' Gedeckt
4' Flute
Tremulant

Rescued E.M. Skinner organ

2010-03-20T18:58:00.001-07:00

Read the full article here.

Saint Mark United Methodist Church - Atlanta, Georgia

2010-01-20T06:03:00.001-08:00

We have completed the retoration and installation of a vintage 8' Clarinet to the organ at Saint Mark United Methodist Church in Atlanta. During this work, the IV Scharff of the Positiv organ was professionaly stored and the 8' Krummhorn located in its place. The organ now has the luxury of an additional solo stop that speaks with a richness enough to warm the coldest of January hearts.

New Positiv Organ specification:
8' Gedeckt
8' Erzahler (Swell)
8' Erzahler Celeste (Swell)
4' Nachthorn
4' Erzahler Celeste II (Swell)
2' Principal
1 1/3' Quint
II Sesquialtera
8' Krummhorn (Aeolian-Skinner original)
8' Clarinet (in Swell)

In continues to be a pleasure to work with organist John Richardson and the entire Saint Mark staff.

Driving on Sundays

2009-12-29T07:46:00.000-08:00

After a December service at Morningside Presbyterian that featured the choir and our Opus 1, the musical director of a local professional symphony orchestra commented, "The choir was wonderful and the organ sounds like a Rolls-Royce."

How would you like to drive a Rolls-Royce every Sunday morning? We can help make that happen for you and your church. Call us today to find out how!!

http://coulterorgans.com/projects/morningside-presbyterian.html

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church Gainesville, FL Version 2.0

2009-11-30T06:59:00.000-08:00

We were fortunate to again work with Organist/Choirmaster Dr. John Lowe and John Pritchard Organbuilder to clean the Visser-Rowland organ at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Gainesville, Florida.

After the restoration of the Christ window at the church, the organ was severely inundated with a fine layer of dirt. In our work all the pipes of the organ were thoroughly cleaned and checked for proper speech.

While the pipes were removed, service lights were installed in this twenty year old organ to allow for proper service and tuning. Prior to the installation of these lights, there were many pipes that were simply impossible to see, and therefore rarely tuned.

Through close consultation with Dr Lowe and Mr Pritchard, we set forth to redesign the various manual division mixtures. In this work, we silenced the highest pitched ranks in part or in total depending on the given mixture. We also completely revoiced the pedal 16' Prestant. After revoicing, what had been a very mild 16' open stop (equal in volume to the 16' Gedeckt), this stop now functions as a proper 16' Principal voice for the organ.

With this work, the organ now achieves a tonal balance it never had before. The manual mixtures still compliment each other, but no longer grate on the the ears of the musician or congregants. With the fuller and richer 16' Prestant, the previously ineffective 32' Subbass now actually tells under the full ensemble. The stronger, richer sounds of the 16' reinforce the harmonics of the 32'.

It is important to note, for those concerned with our alteration of an instrument by another builder, to date none of our work has been performed in a manner that could not be easily reversed if so desired.

The first Sunday the organ was used in this newest form, numerous parishioners mentioned the warmer, richer sound of the instrument. It was again a pleasure to work with these two fine musicians to continue to make this instrument more versatile and useful for their needs.

http://coulterorgans.com/projects/holytrinitygainesville.html

First Presbyterian Atlanta

2009-07-07T12:40:00.001-07:00

We were honored to be invited by Charles Whittaker, Director of Music at First Presbyterian Church to perform a thorough inspection of the 105 rank Moller/Zimmer pipe organ. We have been caring for the small Klop organ in the chapel since its installation in 2006. While we found the main sanctuary organ to be in good mechanical condition, recent construction on the premises introduced large amounts of dirt and dust into the pipe organ. Following a full tuning of the instrument in March of 2009, numerous reed pipes fell silent or went off speech due to excessive dirt within the pipes.

Upon our proposal, we were contracted by the church to perform a thorough cleaning of the entire 105 rank, eight division instrument. In this work we will remove all pipes, with the reed pipes being sent to the Coulter Organbuilders shop for dismantling and cleaning of all resonators, eschallots and tongues. All flue pipes would be thoroughly cleaned on premises to remove dirt that can interfere with proper pipe speech.

With all the pipes removed, the wind chests will be vacuumed to remove loose dirt and then wiped clean to more extensively remove the dirt. The pipes would then be replaced and would then receive a thorough tuning and regulation of the reed pipes. During this work, substantial portions of the organ will be available for service use, with either the entire front or entire gallery organ being playable in addition to other divisions. We will coordinate closely with the music staff to ensure divisions they would need for any given service will be playable.

It is indeed an honor to work closely with Charles and Diane Whittaker, as well as the entire First Presbyterian Church of Atlanta to ensure this fine pipe organ continues to serve this historic congregation for many years to come.

Saint Luke's Presbyterian Church

2009-06-07T06:23:00.000-07:00

Schantz Organ Company; 1967
II - 3 1/2 ranks

In April of 2009, we were honored to be invited by Clair Maxwell, Director of Music at Saint Luke's Presbyterian to inspect the Schantz organ in storage at the church for installation in their new chapel.

This instrument originally constructed as a home practice instrument in 1967. The instrument served that purpose to two different owners until 2004. At that time the owner decided to move into a smaller residence and not take the instrument. The organ was then donated to Saint Luke's Presbyterian as a nucleolus for a larger chapel organ.

As so often happens, plans and funding changed and the instrument sat in storage for many years. Finally the desire emerged in the church to install the organ it is current state in hopes of through its use it would elicit greater interest into expanding the instrument into a more suitable chapel instrument.

It is an honor to assist Saint Luke's Presbyterian in the care and enhancement of this fine pipe organ.

Saint Luke's Presbyterian Church - Dunwoody, Georgia
Schantz Organ Company - 1967

Manual I
8' Rohrflute
4' Principal
2' Flute
II Mixture

Manual II
8' Quintaton
4' Rohrflute
2 2/3' Nasat
2' Principal

Pedal
16' Gedecktbass
8' Rohrflute
4' Principal
2' Octave

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church; Gainesville, Florida

2009-05-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

Visser - Rowland & Associates; 1994

III -49

In May of 2009, we were honored to enter into a collaboration with John Pritchard Organbuilder to begin a phased tonal redesign and revoicing of the Visser - Rowland organ at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Gainesville, Florida.

This instrument was installed in 1994 after a devastating fire destroyed the sanctuary. This organ is very much in the Dutch tradition of most Visser - Rowland instruments.

Through working with organist/choirmaster John Lowe, he and Mr Pritchard devised the first steps in making this instrument more easily meet the Anglican traditions of the music ministry at Holy Trinity.

We were brought to Gainesville to participate in the voicing, tonal finishing, and to provide further insight for future steps in this phased process. Among the first items addressed was the substitution of the Hoofdwerk (Great) 2' Woudfluit (Waldflute) with the Zwelwerk (Swell) 2' Octaff (Octave). The Rugwerk (Positiv) 8' Kromhoorn (Krumhorn) was also significantly softened to serve as a more useful solo stop. The Zwelwerk V Sherp (Scharf) was regulated, tuned, and had some of the highest pitched ranks muted to better blend with the Zwelwerk Chorus and reeds.

It is an honor to assist Holy Trinity in the care and enhancement of this fine pipe organ.

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church - Gainesville, Florida
Visser - Rowland & Associates organ, 1994

Hoofdwek (Great) Organ
16' Bourdon (1-17 ped)
8' Praestant (facade)
8' Roerfluit
4' Octaaf
4' Nachthoorn
2-2/3' Kwint
2' Octaaf
II Sesquialter
V Mixtuur
8' Trompet

Rugwerk (Positiv) Organ
8' Praestant (facade)
8' Gedekt
4' Octaaf
4' Spitsfluit
2-2/3' Nasard
2' Superoctaaf
1-3/5' Terts
III Kleinmixtuur
8' Kromhoorn
Tremulant (manuals)

Zwelwerk (Swell) Organ
8' Gemshorn
8' Holpijp
8' Salicionaal
8' Celeste (gems)
4' Praestant
4' Koppelfluit
2' Woudfluit
V Scherp
16' Fagot
8' Trompette
4' Klaroen
Tremulant (manuals)

Pedaal Organ
32' Subbas (ext Ged)
16' Praestant (wood)
16' Gedektbas
8' Ockaafbas
8' Gedekt (ext)
4' Koraalbas
IV Mixtuur
16' Bazuin (wood)
8' Trompet
4' Schalmei

Saint Mark's Episcopal Church - LaGrange, Georgia

2009-04-28T06:29:00.000-07:00

In 2009, we were contracted by the vestry of Saint Mark's Episcopal Church to revoice and generate a new tonal design for the pipe organ.

Originally, the organ was built in 1976 by the Schantz organ company. The instrument was of electro-pneumatic action with two manuals and 14 ranks of pipes. As was the style at the time, the scales and wind pressures in this organ were light, granting the lean sound that was in fashion at the time. Additionally, there were peculiarities in the stop list that are a definite reflection of the times.

With the hiring of Bill Elliot, as organist, a new desire came from the bench to address the inadequacies of the instrument. Through close collaboration with Mr. Elliot, we were able to devise certain changes to the organ that would allow him to better serve the congregation in a manner he felt best suited the services.

In this work, certain ranks will be relocated, with others removed altogether in favor of more colorful stops. Additionally, and perhaps of greatest importance, the Great 8' Principal will be completely rescaled and revoiced to fit our tonal philosophies.

We believe the Great 8' Principal should be strong enough of tone to gracefully fill the empty church with sound. But of equal importance is the color and breadth of tone. Simply put, a loud stop is not musicial, a full voiced stop with a rich, even tone is the very definition of a musical sound. We are not beholden to any preconceived notions about scaling or the mechanics of pipe voicing, but rather allow the pipe, the room and the church musician to give our actions. For it is only when pipe, room, musician and builder come together that musical sounds are created.

Saint Mark's Episcopal Church - LaGrange, Georgia
Schantz Organ, 1976
Tonal Revisions by Robert I. Coulter - Organbuilder, 2009

Great Organ
8' Principal (revoiced)
8' Bordun (wood)
4' Octave
2' Super Octave (from Swell)
III Mixture
8' Basson (Swell)
Chimes

Swell Organ
8' Quintadena (new)
8' Gemshorn (tenor C)
4' Nachthorn
2 2/3' Nazard (1 1/3' rescaled & repitched)
2' Blockflute (from Great)
8' Trompette (new)
8' Basson
Tremolo

Pedal Organ
16' Gedeckt
8' Octave (Great)
8' Gedeckt (ext)
8' Gedeckt - Swell
4' Choralbass (ext)
16' Contre Trompette (Swell)
8' Basson (Swell)

An Arguement for the Swell 8' Principal

2009-02-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

There has been a reemergence in recent years of 8' Principal stops in Swell organs. In the opinion of this writer, this is the single best development in pipe organ specifications in the past 25 years. Historically, 8' Principals were found in nearly every division, with the exception of Brustwerk organs.

The organs Bach knew and preferred had numerous 8' Principal stops. As the Principal tone is the single voice that is unique to the organ, and the 8' pitch the unison, the presence of 8' Principals seems logical.

Yet during the 'Organ Reform' movement, 8' Principals began to disappear from divisions other than the Great and Pedal. In many three manual organs designed by Ernest White for the Moller company, the only 8' Principal to be found at all would be a small scale 8' Spitz Principal for the Pedal. Imagine an organ of 40 ranks, with two Great mixtures and no 8' Principal tone!!

First Presbyterian Church - Anderson, South Carolina
M. P. Moller organ, 1958 - Opus 9225

Great Organ
16' Quintaton
8' Gemshorn
8' Rohrflute
4' Principal
2' Waldflote
IV Fourniture
Tremolo

Choir Organ
8' Quintflote
8' Erzahler
8' Erzahler Celeste
4' Koppelflote
2' Prinzipal
1 1/3' Larigot
8' Hautbois
Tremolo

Swell Organ
16' Gedeckt
8' Gedeckt - extension
8' Gambe
8' Gambe Celeste
4' Nachthorn
III Plein Jeu
8' Trompette
Tremolo

Pedal Organ
32' Resultant
16' Sous Basse
16' Gedeckt - Swell
8' Spitzprinzipal
8' Rohrflote
8' Gedeckt - Swell
4' Spitzprinzipal - extension
4' Rohrflote - extension
2' Rohrflote - extension
III Mixture
16' Posaune - extension Swell

The theory forwarded by Mr. White was this. In a Swell organ, an 8' Principal like tone could be created by combining a large scale 8' string with a small scale 8' stopped flute. This theory fails for a number of reasons:

It is a compromise at best. A large scale 8' string on the relatively low wind pressures of the era, looses its stringy character, and becomes neither string nor principal. The same is true for the stopped flute. If it is too small, the richness and fundamental are lost along with its inherent sweetness.

It creates an imbalance. Most organists prefer a Swell organ with 4' Principal, perhaps a 2' Principal and a mixture. A division such as this sounds top heavy and lacking proper foundation for the upper work. Many organists get around this problem by using the unison off and Swell to Swell 16' coupler, again a compromise.

1 + 1 = 3.

In a Swell organ of 8' String and 8' Stopped Flute, there are three possible combinations of 8' unison tone.

8' String alone
8' Stopped flute alone
8' String & 8' Flute

With the addition of an 8' Principal, the flute can be voiced more richly, the string more keenly and then 1 + 1 + 1 = 7!!

8' Principal alone
8' String alone
8' Flute alone
8' Principal & String
8' Principal & Flute
8' String & Flute
8' Principal, 8' String & 8' Flute

With these three stops, if they are properly voiced of nearly equal volume and fiercely independent character, more than double the possible combination of stops are possible.

During the 1970's & 1980's, a secondary 8' Principal could be found in some organs, often in the Choir and called 'English Diapason'. While better than nothing, this also missed the point in my opinion. Unless the Choir organ were extensive, there would typically not be another 8' open stop or any volume, leaving the 8' English Diapason alone to function as string and principal without excelling at either.

The French have the Jeu de Fonds concept of 8' Montre, 8' Bourdon, 8' Flute Harmonique and in large instruments 8' Salicional. This concept should be looked to for inspiration in the design of any swell organ. Three stops, each of unique character, but which blend together to produce a wonderful, rich effect that greater than the sum of its parts.

There is a similar concept in French classic cooking called the mirepoix, a combination of three aeromatic vegetables, onion, celery and carrot. For the creole, it is called 'Le Trinitie' and is made up of; onion, celery and bell pepper instead of carrot. These three ingredients are the common building blocks upon which two entire cuisines are based. The musical combination of Principal, String, and Flute, while not sustaining for life as gumbo, can still be just as satisfying to the musical soul.

Bon Appetit!

Robert Coulter
http://coulterorgans.com

Converse College

2009-02-02T07:04:00.000-08:00

In the fall of 2008, we were pleased to be contracted by Converse College to return one of the Holtkamp organs to functioning status. The instrument was built in the 1970's, and is seven ranks over two manuals.

Upon our first inspection, we found this instrument to be in overall fine condition. There were a number of blown pneumatics that related to the control of the stops. We were able to recover some of these pneumatics during our most recent service visit to the college.

With a rapidly growing organ program, we are honored to be able to assist the college and Dr. Leon Couch III in the care of the four fine pipe organs on their campus.

Holtkamp organ

Manual I
8' Gedeckt
4' Principal
2' Gemshorn
III - Mixture
8' Krummhorn

Manual II
8' Gemshorn
4' Gedeckt
2' Principal
1 1/3' Gemshorn

Pedal
16' Gedecktbass
8' Gemshorn
8' Gedeckt
4' Principal
16' Krummhorn (en chamade!)
4' Krummhorn

Robert Coulter
http://coulterorgans.com

1730 Cahman Organ

2008-10-01T04:27:00.000-07:00

While in Uppsala, we took a field trip to see the historic 1730 pipe organ by Johan Cahman in the Kristine Kyrka (Church) Lovstabruk, Sweden.

The town of Lovstabruk was a 'company town', built by an industry owner to house the workers and families of his iron works. The organ was built by the Swedish builder and completed in 1730. The sounds are quite remarkable, and each of the 4 mixtures in this two manual organ has a tierce rank, giving the organ its bright, powerful sound. This is a historic gem, and the largest preserved baroque organ in Sweden.

Robert Coulter
http://coulterorgans.com

more Uppsala

2008-09-30T12:35:00.000-07:00

More pictures from in and around Uppsala, including pictures from inside the towers..... really amazing views from 100 meters above the ground!

Robert Coulter
http://coulterorgans.com

More Uppsala pics

2008-09-18T06:51:00.000-07:00

my street

my house

Honda Civic (not type R or anything, standard Civic..... why can't we have cool looking civics like that?)

Civic again (teasing me)

Robert Coulter
http://coulterorgans.com

Fish or Pasta

2008-09-11T07:35:00.001-07:00

Work continues at a fever pitch here. We've finished the voicing on the 14 ranks of flues in the Great organ. It really does make quite a sound. We are now totally entrenched in the Solo, Viole d'Orchestre (3 total) and all, including a Walcker labial clarinet.... Amazing sound....

I have to admit, I have always thought of myself as not quite just an American. I am very loyal to my country and vote regularly, but had just believed I could fit in anywhere in the the world quite easily. A citizen of the world if you will without ever having seen the world. Damn if I wasn't wrong.

These past 10 days have been more of a culture shock that I could have ever expected. Granted in my nearly 32 years I've yet to truly master the English language, but you don't really appreciate it until the only time you hear it is in your own head. Luckily, most Swedes speak English at least as well as I, and the three Italians I'm working with have English skills that range from fluent to just enough to convey a point. Still, there is a nobility and subtle grandeur in our language most of us neither produce, nor appreciate.

On appreciating things, I am a fan of fish. That comes quite honestly from my Mother. (she's a fiend for seafood, will knock other old ladies down for shrimp on the seafood buffet bar) Ok, I made that last part up just because I knew she would be reading. But I do love fish, or at least did.

Since my arrival, there have been 20 non-breakfast meals. There have been, to this point, three meals that have not involved fish, pasta or both! It's been very nice eating so well, with all healthy food and terrifically fresh ingredients, but I fear this is too much like some strange detox program for fans of red meat and sweet tea. (red meat is rare to find here, and sweet tea? forget it.... like some odd fat camp for southerners)

It is not nearly as bad as I make. Francesco both loves to cook as well as excelling at it. All the boys have so far been a joy to work with, even if I rarely know what they are saying. My only fear is they are trying to put me in an early grave from the sheer quantity of food they consume, but that is another matter.

Enough for now, next time I'll talk about the drinking problem in Sweden.... Not enough, and I only mean that partially the way you think..... Now the only reason you are here.... More pictures.....

Robert Coulter
http://coulterorgans.com

Uppsala, Sweden

2008-09-07T08:18:00.001-07:00

Cathedral

new Ruffatti pipe organ

1876 pipe organ by Akerman (quite wonderful)

As promised, this is my first post from Sweden so my friends can keep up with me while here. My internet access has been limited until now, but I should be able to post more regularly now.

Uppsala is a very charming town, not at all large but quite full of people. The cathedral is a truely stunning place, and I truly feel honored to be working there with the Ruffatti firm.

So far the Swedish people have been really very friendly, if not all that outgoing. Once you have spoken to them they are nice and helpful, but under almost no circumstance will they speak to you first.

I now, for the first time in my life, know what it means to be different. There is no way to hide my being an American. 6'1", brown hair, new beard (yeah...), I stick out like a cat in hen house. It's not a big deal, other than the constant stares at me take a little getting used to. It has also happened three times now that I walk in to a place and as soon as I say hello, someone says, "Oh you're from the states?"

I have to make one further commentary about the people. The people here are incredibly beautiful, period. It is nothing short of staggering. Your senses are constantly assulted by the torrent of remarkable faces passing by. I must say that unfortunately, these people do not appear to age as well as others. 25 seems to be the magic age and it is unfortunately a rather quick slide then to the late 30's.

So, so far this has been nice. The working conditions are nice, and other than the 4am-3pm schedule, I can't complain. In the next post I'll mention more about the town and the cathedral, and the super cool British couple I met last night. Her = student here; Him = British Army (FUN)

Robert Coulter
http://coulterorgans.com

Sam Jones United Methodist Church

2008-08-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Finally, after challenges from all fronts, our organ at Sam Jones United Methodist Church is finished. I am personally thrilled with the way this organ has turned out. The organ at Morningside is big, grand, noble, English and thrilling! This organ in Cartersville, Georgia is much more subtle, and is a better reflection of how I want my organs to be.

The Great principals are rich and noble, and yet gentle and unforced. Even the mixture, which is bold, is not strident and simply adds a brilliance without shrieking in the church. The Great 4' Spire Flute has a wonderful 'pop' (as a dear colleague said) to the tone, much like a large 2' blockflute but an octave lower. When paired with the 8' Bourdon, they bind together to almost grant a 8' Harmonic Flute color to the division.

The four 8' stops in the Swell, (Geigen, Salicional, Voix Celeste, Gedeckt), are all fiercely independent with the tone of the slotted Salicional having the most presence. And yet, these stops are of equal volume and color each other in a manner that means 1+1+1=5!
The Great Tromba/Pedal Trombone speaks with plenty of power to function as a solo stop, but still blends into the Principal chorus of the Great and the trombone is dark enough to be usable under smaller combinations.

What brings a smile to my face the quickest though, is the cumulative effect of playing the 7 manual 8' stops together. There is a richness in that sound that is to be expected, but what is surprising is the ability to hear each of those 7 stops clearly within the ensemble. I've often asked Don to simply play a hymn on those stops and I sit there in the beautiful church stunned by the richness and brightness found in those stops.

So, the organ is done and the name plate is on. There were times during the past year when I felt the mountain was too steep, and the challenges too numerous. It is through the dogged resilience and support of Reggie, Don, Mat, David, JP, Mr Ross, Thomas, Randy, and Josh that this organ, an instrument I feel exceptionally proud of is now complete. For as proud as I am of this organ, I know it would not have turned out so wonderfully without these great men, and they have my thanks.

Robert Coulter
http://coulterorgans.com

First

2008-08-24T10:29:00.001-07:00

This is the my first post to the new Coulter-Organbuilder blog. My immediate plans are to use this blog to keep my friends, family and supporters informed of my work while working in Uppsala, Sweden.

For the long term, I would love to have this blog show insight into the challenges and rewards involved in:
Pipe organ building
Pipe organ service & maintenance
Small business ownership
Starting and growing a business

This will probably end up being more cathartic for me than anything else, but if others enjoy it, even better. If it helps organists or other interested individuals understand all that goes into the construction and maintenance of fine pipe organs, then all the better.

Sincerely,
Robert Coulter
http://coulterorgans.com