Saturday, May 31, 2008 First Congregational Church, Hudson, MI Lyon and Healey Pipe Organ: Opus 59 (1900)

 

 

 

Organ Historical Society

Michigan Chapter

 

Minutes of the May 31, 2008 Meeting

 

First Congregational Church, Hudson, Michigan

Lyon and Healey Pipe Organ: Opus 59 (1900)

 

As Reported by MaryAnn Balduf

 

 

 

Jim Wilkes plays the Lyon and Healy Opus 59, which still exhibits some well rounded sounds. Dana Hull and Kenneth Holden seem to be paying more attention to the camera than to Jim's playing.

 

 

The OHS-Michigan "Boychoir" stands ready to sing the hymn. L-R: Jasper Pennington, Kenneth Holden, Trevor Dodd, Mark Muller and Jim Wilkes.

 

 

From the looks of it, Jim Wilkes seems to be well connected,

 

 

MaryAnn Crugher Balduf and Dana Hull accompany the traditional OHS hymn sign.

 

 

 

Jasper Pennington provides some animated commentary,

 

 

MaryAnn Balduf plays as others listen from afar. (Photo courtesy of Trevor Dodd)

 

 

A picturesque setting for the Lyon and Healey organ. (Photo courtesy of Trevor Dodd)

 

Present were MaryAnn Balduf, Trevor Dodd, Kenneth Holden, Dana Hull, Jasper Pennington, and Jim Wilkes, along with Dr. Thomas J. Burke, Jr., Pastor, Mark Muller, guest speaker, plus Wanda Van Aubin, and approximately 10 other members of the congregation.

 

In the absence of President Carl Balduf, who was ill, MaryAnn Balduf welcomed the members and guests and introduced Mark Muller of the Muller Pipe Organ Company Northern Regional Office, Maumee, Ohio.

 

Mr. Muller's talk provided interesting insights into the history of the Lyon and Healey organ and its previous changes and "restorations" although much of the original pipework remains intact, if not totally playable. [LISTEN] Muller commended the congregation for its desire to preserve the organ, undo much of the previous work and restore it to its original tonal condition. The 8' Open Diapason was regarded by all as "particularly nice."

 

After a period of open console and pipe chamber perusal, all present sang the hymn, "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name".

 

Following a benediction by Fr. Pennington, the group adjourned to lunch at the nearby historically-appointed Country Kitchen restaurant.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

 

MaryAnn Balduf

 

 

The luncheon crowd assembles after the meeting at the

Country Kitchen restaurant just outside of Hudson.

 

 

 

 

Parish member Wanda Van Aubin listens raptly to

Mark Muller's remarks.

 

 

MaryAnn Balduf flashes an "Ethel Smith" smile at the console.

 

 

Photo shows the results of previous "restorations."

(Photo courtesy of Trevor Dodd)

 

 

 

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