Schoenstein Opus 189

Schoenstein & Co., Benicia, California, has been commissioned to build its Opus 189 for Church of the Palms, Sarasota, Florida. The congregation’s 1993 sanctuary was prepared with space for a pipe organ; however, a digital organ was installed upon completion of the edifice. The three-manual, 27-voice Schoenstein instrument will be placed in organ chambers with a new façade designed by Didier Grassin. The organ project became a catalyst for a renovation project that includes acoustical improvements designed by Scott R. Riedel & Associates.

Seating just under 1,000 persons in the round, this room requires an instrument with a full sound and lots of expression control to maximize musical utility. The Schoenstein Double-Expression system will be employed in the Swell for reeds (32′-16′-8′) and strings. A Sub Bass modeled after Wurlitzer is one of several powerful bass voices that will underpin congregational singing. The music program is led by Kari Hamada, director of worship and music, and Jonathan Spivey, organist. Installation is planned for summer of 2027. 

For information: churchofthepalms.org and schoenstein.com.

Rendering of Schoenstein & Co. Opus 189, Church of the Palms, Sarasota, Florida