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Walcker Organ
Committee Report
A VISION TO UPHOLD
Historically, both choral and instrumental music have inspired the
Christian community at Methodist Temple in its praises to God.
In keeping with that tradition, a Kilgen Pipe Organ was dedicated in our sanctuary on May
25, 1952. (Although built in St. Louis, Missouri, Kilgen organs originated in Europe in
the seventeenth century.) For thirty-eight years, the Kilgen organ served this
congregation and community through beautiful music, and its chimes will continue to play
as they have been incorporated into the E.F. Walcker Organ we inaugurate today.
The decision to purchase a new organ was based partly on need and partly on vision. Since
the 1970s, we had known that the Kilgen organ would have to be rebuilt or replaced in the
late 80s or early 90s. Over the years, it had deteriorated in sound and function.
In 1987, the Administrative Board appointed a committee to develop a recommendation and
plan for organ renovation or replacement. Through self-study, many consultations with
experts, and visits to hear numerous organs, the committee concluded that the purchase of
a new organ was advisable.
The search thus began for an organ that would bring brilliant leadership for
congregational singing; provide appropriate accompaniment for choirs, vocalists, and
instrumentalists; and be a quality instrument to accommodate a full range of musical
literature.
In time, the committee narrowed its choices of organ manufacturers to one company that
could build an instrument to meet all the specifications: the 210-year-old E.F. Walcker
Organ Company of Kleinblittersdorf, Germany. The Methodist Temple organ is the largest
organ Walcker has installed in the United States in 100 years.
With pride and thanksgiving to God, we join in dedicating this beautiful instrument. The
E.F. Walcker organ upholds a unique vision for Methodist Temple-a vision fulfilled as we
share our love of music, glorifying God with others in this community.
Edgar D. Ancona, Chairman Organ Committee
ORGAN COMMITTEE:
Edgar Ancona
Ray Arensman
John Breckenridge
Larry Curtis
Ben Field
John Hopkins
Beverly Lacy
Eula Megli
Ann Moore
Joan Nevill
Mike Shoulders
CHANCEL RENOVATION: Architect:
Mike Shoulders, Knapp, Given, Veazey & Shoulders
Builder:
Lichtenberger Construction Company
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