Organ Update
Our Historic Stevens-Moore Tracker Organ
Organ Update: October 2024
As all are aware, Zion’s pipe organ has been out of commission since it was water-damaged following the derecho storm in August, 2020. Since that time, substantial repairs have been completed. However, in January of this year, Zion’s congregation approved hiring a new contractor, Lubbert Gnodde of Pomfret, Vermont, to finish the restoration and reassembly. Lubbert came to us on the recommendation of A. David Moore, who installed our “Stevens/Moore” organ in 1977. Lubbert worked in David Moore’s shop for many years, and both reside in Pomfret. Lubbert came to Iowa City in December of 2023 and at that time completed a thorough written Assessment and Plan for Repair and Reinstallation. That Plan was presented to and approved by the congregation and remains the blueprint for finishing this project.
The next step in the restoration process is for three large wind chests to be removed from the organ so that they can be repaired. These wind chests, along with some smaller components, are best repaired in Lubbert’s shop in Vermont. It was determined that the most efficient approach would be for David Moore to retrieve the wind chests and other components for delivery to Lubbert. David has been planning to travel to California to complete a major organ installation and has agreed to stop in Iowa City for the wind chests on his way back from California to Vermont. Unfortunately, David’s trip –originally scheduled for July – has been delayed. At present, we are in regular communication with Lubbert and with David regarding these logistics (or an alternative). We hope to have clarity on the timeline – both for removal/delivery of the wind chests and for the completion of restoration and reinstallation – in the near future.
We will strive to provide more frequent updates; however, you should always feel free to ask any member of the Organ Committee for the latest developments. We all ache for the day when our wonderful organ will once again support worship at Zion. Thank you for your patience and prayers.
Organ Committee: Marlys Boote, Melanie Sigafoose, Bill Nibbelink, Tim Krumm
Organ Update: December 2023
At long last – an Organ Update … and there is good news to share!
A substantial portion of the repair and restoration work on our Stevens-Moore organ has been completed. The work to date has been accomplished by Patrick Budelier. Recently, the decision was made to engage a different organ builder for the completion of the project.
Lubbert Gnodde, of Pomfret, Vermont, has been to Iowa City to assess our project and providehis recommendations. Those familiar with our organ’s history will note that Pomfret Vermont is also the home of A. David Moore, our original organ builder. Lubbert worked for many years in David’s shop and comes to us at David’s recommendation.
To learn more about Lubbert,check out his website: www.lubbertgnodde.com.
Lubbert’s assessment is that the work to date has been well done. Some essential work is needed on the main wind chests (1 swell; 2 great). Once that is accomplished, the main task will be the careful re-assembly of the instrument. Our instrument is old and unique – so a few surprises in the re-assembly process can be expected. Still, there is great optimism that the organ will be better than ever. We anticipate that work will re-commence after the first of the year, with the removal of the wind chests. The work on those components will take place in Lubbert’s shop in Vermont, and is estimated to take about 6 weeks. After that, the wind chests and all other components (including over 1800 pipes) can be re-installed.
Lubbert’s preliminary cost estimate for completing our project, including restoration of the wind chests, is within the original budget. At this point, we are cautiously optimistic that the funds remaining in the Organ Preservation Fund will be sufficient (thanks to Zion’s generosity when funds were raised). We anticipate that the Church Council will want to hold a congregational meeting after the first of the year to approve a new contract. More information will be provided at that time.
The Organ Committee
Tim Krumm, Marlys Boote, Melanie Sigafoose, and Bill Nibbelink
Organ Repair and Maintenance Project: History and Overview
For the past 44 years, the Stevens-Moore organ has been a vital resource for Zion’s worship and music-making. The organ has a long history before coming to Zion, having been built in 1852 by the prolific and respected organ builder, George Stevens.
Over the years, Zion has taken good care of this treasure, attending to repairs and maintenance. However, a list of deferred work, due to logistics and cost, has been getting longer. Then came the Derecho storm of August, 2020. The roof was damaged, resulting in water leaking through the ceiling and into the organ. The damage was significant.
In consultation with Patrick Budelier Pipe Organ Services, a list of needed repairs and maintenance has been identified. Some are critical, in direct response to the water damage. Others are from the list of deferred maintenance. Once the scope of the repairs needed in response to the water damage was determined, it became clear that this is also the time to address other maintenance needs.
Zion’s Council has approved proceeding with the necessary repairs, which are scheduled to begin on May 17, 2021. Our organ is expected to fully repaired and functioning by April 2022.
Explore this page for information and resources related to the Zion organ, the current project, and opportunities for you to contribute.
Donate to Organ Preservation Fund: https://onrealm.org/ZionLutheranIC/-/form/give/organ