Orgelbau Th. Kuhn AG, 1971
New organ
www.orgelbau.ch/ope=111790
III/P/42
Switzerland, Zurich
Ref. Kirche
The large Swell as a compromise
This church, built in 1902/05 by the architects Kehrer and Knell in Zurich is constructed in the usual cruciform with a pulpit wall. In other respects, however, its form does not pay homage to the Art Nouveau but abides to the historical outlook of the Neo-Gothic period. Only in some of its furnishings, for example in the decorative painting, is the influence of the Art Nouveau apparent. The organ façade, which dates from the same period, also displays some elements of the Art Nouveau - the characteristic decorative bands in front of the pipes, for instance. The organ, originally built by our company, was fully pneumatic (III/P/31). This instrument was, however, no longer able to serve the demands on it which, over the decades, had changed considerably.
The planning phase for the new organ took place during the height of the «Organ Movement». Enclosed cases for the divisions appear, at this time, to have been indispensable. This resulted in conflict with the Authority for the Preservation of Ancient Monuments, who were of the opinion that the old façade should remain. After something of a struggle, it was, however eventually decided to replace the old façade with a modern design.
A major compromise for that time was the French-style Swell, set back from the main façade. At that time the Romantic Swell was treated with some disdain by many experts. Our firm, however, had never entirely given up the construction of the large Swell, and French voicers had passed down the art of voicing string stops and classical reeds to the young talents.
Due to limited height on the organ gallery, the pipes of the Principal 16 ' of the Pedals only extend down to F-sharp as front pipes. The six lowest pipes (made of wood) stand with the Posaune 16 ' behind the Swell.
Friedrich Jakob, 2006
Translation: SJR