First UMC, Albany, Oregon completes organ

The First United Methodist Church of Albany, Oregon has completed its four-manual M. P. Möller pipe organ. 

In 1985, when the organ was commissioned, funding was not adequate to install the Positiv division, leaving the bottom manual unused. In addition to the installation of the ten-rank Positiv, a Clarinet, Viole, and Viole Celeste were installed in the Swell II division.

The organ recently received a combination action memory expansion, installation of a 25-note set of Chimes (replacing a failed 1960s electronic carillon), and a Zimbelstern. The Zimbelstern star is an antique 10-point rotary hoe from a tractor. (The Albany area is a major producer of grass seed.) Recent work was executed by Hochhalter, Inc., which, acting as agents for M. P. Möller, designed and installed the organ in 1985. Eric McKirdy is principal organist and director of music for the church.

For information: www.hochhalter.com.