The Grand’s organ project is being done in 2 phases:
Phase 1 consisted of the installation of a 2 manual/6 rank Marr & Colton theater organ. This organ was originally installed in the Rivoli Theater in Chicopee, Massachusetts in 1923.
We are proud to say that Phase 1 is complete! The organ premiered to an almost sold-out house for The Grand's 85th Anniversary on October 4, 2009. World-renowned organist, Mr. Jeff Barker accompanied Mr. Nelson Page's print of the 1925 silent film, "Phantom of the Opera", starring Lon Chaney.
The 2/6 Marr & Colton originally consisted of:
Phase 1 restored and installed all of the components listed above. In addition, the original electro-mechanical relay from Marr & Colton was replaced with a state-of-the-art electronic relay system custom designed for us by Peterson Organ Products to enhance the reliability and allow us to enlarge the organ with absolutely no change in sound. This relay has been designed to accommodate the additions in Phase 2.
Between the October 4th premier and Thanksgiving 2009, a set of tuned sleigh bells was completely restored by Mr. Brant Duddy and Mr. Carl Black. The bells were used for the first time on December 11, 2009, for The Grand's 5th Annual Christmas Tradition Show.
Phase 2 consists of the installation of an additional 3 manual Marr & Colton console, and an addition of 7 more Marr & Colton ranks. This console was originally installed in the Ohio Theater in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1923, and was relocated to the Bethel Temple Church of Seattle, Washington in the 1940s. After almost 70 years, it is returning to its true home – a theater!
Phase 2 is about 50% complete and the remainder of the funding was generated by the October 4th premier. Six of the aditional main chests for the enlargement are installed, wired to the relay, and winded. Three ranks of pipes have been installed, with the remainder ready. Final tonal finishing will occur once the additional console is in place.
The 3 manual console has had the manuals completely rebuilt with re-covered keys. We have purchased the Peterson combination action for the console. The console has been refinished, and we have also acquired a Howard seat for it. The bulk of the work that remains for Phase 2 is wiring over 100 new stops, the manuals, combination action, and harnesses to go to the relay.
Phase 2's additional ranks consist of:
Also being added:
The Grand wishes to extend our deepest thanks to all those critical in the restoration and installation of our Marr & Colton: Mr. Brant Duddy, Mr. Carl Black, and Mr. Stephen Greene, as well as those who have helped make our premier a success: Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Lucas, Mr. Nelson Page, Mr. Jeff Barker, Mr. Robert Dilworth, and of course all of our patrons and supporters!