Friday, July 26, 2019

Advantages Of Pipe Organ Maintenance

By Amy Gray


Well-established churches, especially cathedral, need massive music instruments for their congregation or choir. One of those instruments is a pipe organ. It produces sound when pressurized air is driven through organ pipes via a keyboard selection. Pipe organ maintenance is a very crucial aspect that needs to be maintained regularly. Below the importance are discussed in details.

For quality sound production, there is a need for regular checkups. By tuning the primary keys, crystal clear sound can be easily achieved. The act can be done twice a year, mostly at the end of cold and warm seasons. An expert is required for the task to be performed accordingly. It also helps avoid further damage to the organ. Care should be taken to prevent tampering with the original pitch.

Playing every note at different but frequent time intervals helps maintain increasing durability. This applies to the instruments that are not regularly used. Doing this prevents dust particles and any other dirt entering the pipes and parts that rely on wind conduction. Ensuring the needed degree of humidity is in existence is a crucial way machine maintenance.

Materials used to build pipe organs require renewal since they are perishable. They wear out as time pass. Proven impregnation solutions are used for treatment. Once the soundboard is dismantled, the note channels are opened first and done thoroughly. Sometimes the damage might be severe if the apparatus is left for more prolonged periods without being maintained. The damaged parts can be changed for new parts. An electric blower must never occur if the device is a piece of furniture or a museum artifact.

Change of temperature in a room with an instrument affects the functionality. Caution should be taken if an apartment is heated. Attention needs to be given to the temperature of the room for it may prevent the wooden parts from drying. Spraying insecticides can curb insects that destroy wood. The organs should be left alone by ensuring favorable conditions are provided. This will reduce the need for restoration work.

One of the essential ways to maintain the instrument is by choosing a trusted organist. One with the understanding and appreciation of the duty delegated to them. The capability of observing and reporting any damage after assessment should be their firm values.

The pipes are made of alloys of tin and lead, making them very delicate. Minor bumps can cause dents. They should not be held too tightly for that can make them twisted. They are therefore supposed to be stuck with utmost care whenever the equipment is being cleaned or repaired. It will reduce any possible damage to the significant components of the instrument.

Pipe organs that were built back in the 1700 century have metal pipes covered with a red oxide layer. They have a black toned change making them appear like the crab shells. They are not supposed to get polished though. Polishing them can cause the loss of their authentic sound quality. The surfaces are not supposed to get touched with fingerprints. Touching can make them tarnish that may reduce their service quality. On the other hand, rust can be activated, making this majestic instrument look ugly.




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