The Girard Experience--Part I

July 15th was just an ordinary day.  But for me, this was another chance to visit a gem in Philly.  There is a beautiful pipe organ that is known in the organist circle, but up until last summer--I knew nothing about this instrument.  Some of the greatest musicians have played on her--yes, just like a car or a boat, we do refer to the instrument in the feminine.  She is, in my honest opinion, a grand dame that we should take a closer, careful look before we let her slip through our fingers.

But, before I give you the experience, I think a little history lesson is needed.  Ernest Skinner was the premier organ builder at the start of the 20th century.  His attention to detail and sound, even if a project was behind in time and over its budget, have left some lasting fingerprints in the world of church music and organs.  Many of his earlier instruments have been revisited over the decades and went through alterations--some good and some that have forever changed the instrument from its original mission.  Some good examples of Skinner's work can be found at St. John the Divine and St. Thomas, both in New York City.

So--get in the car, make a trip to Girard or watch a YouTube clip and you will understand what I am talking about.  This is one of Ernest M. Skinner's last instruments before the company was restructured into what was known as the Aeolian-Skinner Company.  So far this instrument has not suffer drastic changes and she is being loved and shared.  But come back...there's more to the story of this timeless gem from the viewpoint of a small village organist from New York.

Tah for now