Organ Rebuild >> Church of St. John the Evangelist, Episcopal, Hingham, MA

This instrument is all third generation Aeolian-Skinner, as by the time it was conceived both of the firm’s famous names were gone; Harrison by death and Skinner by choice.  Management and tonal work were now in the hands of Joseph Whiteford. This organ’s unique layout and generally reduced scaling reflected the changes in hierarchy as well as those of mid-century American organists. 

Opus 1389 was built as a two manual with split Swell Divisions that could be borrowed to either. The console’s stop layout was a bit confusing and ergonomically compromised.  Its dimensions easily provided for the addition of the long awaited third manual.

Careful tonal regulation returned the organ to its 1959 tonal roots with a touch of depth and richness added. As in many of our commissions, the reeds were rebuilt by Broome and Company of East Granby Connecticut. The organ’s electronic systems are by Classic of Markham Ontario. 

Work took a total of eight months and involved complete removal of the instrument.

Photos by Mark Manring.

1. Church of St. John the Evangelist, Episcopal, Hingham, MA

2. Interior of St. John the Evangelist, Episcopal, Hingham, MA

3. Organ Front designed by Aeolian Skinner

4. Reconditioned Pedal Bourdon

5. Reconditioned Swell 16’ Bombards

6. View of restored chassis

7. New Choir division

8. Swell, with Great visible beyond shades

9. Reconditioned Pedal Chest

10. View of Reconditioned Chassis

11.  Great, Left side

12. 1566:  Great, Right Side

13. Retired Groton School organist Craig Smith is a member of St. Johns and oversaw the project on behalf of the church