This exquisite organ is a beautiful example of Derek’s love for his craft. He was excited to take on the challenge of creating a portable, mobile organ, still producing the musical results top organ players expect.
He divided the work into two sections; first a lower casing which houses the blower, bellows and brass wood pipes. An upper case holds the windchest and pipes from 8ft G# 9 and the entire 4ft and 2ft pipes.
His choice of woods shows his depth of knowledge of their versatility and personalities. Cherry forms the case, a receptive medium in which to showcase the hand carved emblem and Celtic tracery which defines and personalises the organ, settling it in fittingly to its environment.
For the wood pipes, Derek chose the brightness of Maple, and for the windchest, primarily 100-year-old seasoned, obeche timber. The combination is both unique and harmonious.
Derek is intently focused on making sure the finished product satisfies both the functional and aesthetic aspects of his brief, and delights those who give the commission. Set to Neidhardt 1729, the organ has a transposer for pitches of a415 , a440, and a465. It can also tune down to a430 accommodate the very early ensemble repertoires.
All in all, this project was a most fulfilling one, for everyone involved in the design and making and especially those who flow magnificent repertories through it.