Zion's Schlicker-Sipe Organ

The history of organ building in both Europe and America provides many examples where quality pipework and noble organ cases, often with elegant carving, have become the nucleus of a significant renovation or new instrument.  The present organ in Zion Lutheran Church has a similar background, having first served for thirteen years in the church’s former sanctuary.  The original instrument built by Schlicker Organ Company of Buffalo, New York was installed in the Spring of 1969.  Being apprised of the church’s desire to incorporate the new instrument in a future sanctuary, Mr. Herman Schlicker, then president of the company, developed a design that provided excellent musical results and a pleasing visual appearance during its tenure in the temporary sanctuary.

When planning for the present sanctuary began, a new organ committee was appointed to study factors deemed relevant for achieving a high quality reinstallation.  Though monetary aspects were understandably significant, physical, musical, and aesthetic considerations also received major attention.  The committee ultimately decided to request proposals from three respected builders.  By unanimous committee agreement, Robert L. Sipe, Inc. was recommended and accepted by the congregation.  Since the envisioned project included much more than a modest reinstallation, it was conceived and undertaken in several closely related phases.

During the summer of 1982 the Schlicker Organ was disassembled, and reinstallation in the new sanctuary began that August.  Phase one specified that the major components of the existing organ with a new case and façade pipes be ready for Dedication Services in November 1982.  This was successfully realized, and it enabled the congregation to again enjoy the instrument’s edifying leadership to which it had become accustomed in the former worship facility.

Subsequent phases progressed ahead of projections, as gifts for replacement stops and new additions were received in the ensuing months.  Changes and additions included:  new mixtures for each manual, a new 16’ Basson and 8’ Hautbois, a new Great Trompete and 8’ Principal, the horizontal Trompeta Real with flared resonators, and the 32’ Kontra Pasaune extension in the Pedal.  Subsequent to these, the 8’ Pedal Trompete extension, the 32’ Subbass (acoustic), and an 8-level solid state combination action were also added.  The most recent addition, the Swell 8’ Tompette and 4’ Clarion extension, was installed in June 1994.  Each of these has contributed perceptibly to the instrument’s resourcefulness and flexibility.  The organ has approximately 2700 pipes, ranging in size from a small pencil to more than sixteen feet in length.

The modified design and tonal work included not only the new case and additional pipework, but rescaling and complete revoicing as well.  These changes and improvements have resulted in an instrument that provides valued clarity, majesty, and a cohesive ensemble; its retiring sounds supply warmth.  Collectively these enable the organ to effectively accompany small or large ensembles of either voices or instruments with balance and contrast.

Not only the aural, but the organ’s visual qualities have been commended.  The integration of large flamed copper pipes among the polished tin in the façade display a pleasing aesthetic dimension, as does the angular treatment of the area surrounding the pipe mouths which complements similar features in the sanctuary’s interior.  Apparent, too, are the sweeping, upward lines radiating from the center of the façade outward.  The top of the case outlines a crown and is another visual element reminding the Church that its worship and music be directed to Him who is the Crown of Life.

 ORGAN SPECIFICATIONS

Original instrument by Schlicker Organ Company, Inc.,

(served in previous sanctuary May, 1969—June, 1982).

New case, façade pipes, additional stops and revoicing of the organ in present sanctuary by Robert L. Sipe, Inc.

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