Opus 11 - First Presbyterian Church
Gainesville, GA

In March 2009, First Presbyterian Church, Gainesville Georgia contracted to build a 3 manual, 42 rank organ to replace the current Möller organ located in the sanctuary.

Dr. James Mellichamp of Piedmont College is the consultant for the project.  Mike Henry is the Director of Music for First Presbyterian.  Both have been active in the design of the new specification.

Our initial contact with First Presbyterian was to consider the options for the present 2 manual, 23 rank Möller organ.  Due to project constraints and budgets, the project remained on hold for several years.  In late 2008, a long time member of the church passed and left a substantial bequest for the organ project.  Not only was the church able to consider the renovation of the Möller but a complete new vision for the instrument.  The Möller organ was a product of its time and actually did a satisfactory job of playing baroque literature, but as usual fell short in areas of choral accompaniment  and congregational singing support.  The tonal design of our organs continues to embrace the art of playing baroque literature, but expands the tonal palette to accommodate many more options.  This is an important item in consideration as builders design organs for current day needs.

The new organ provides a 3 manual console in solid walnut to complement the current architecture of the room.  The organ will be placed in a central configuration for better blend and balance.  This will eliminate the large expanse of exposed pipe and chestwork now prevalent in the Möller design.  The new façade will house the 16' and 8' Principals from the Pedal Division and the 8' Principals from the Great Division.  The organ will have two expressive divisions located behind the Great.

Work began in March 2009 and the Möller will be removed in June to allow the completion of necessary structural changes and renovation to the sanctuary space.  The new organ will be scheduled for installation in Fall of 2009, with final work and tonal finishing scheduled for early 2010.

Check back for further updates.