Historical organ brought back to life

The Adelaide Town Hall’s original but long forgotten pipe organ will be the star attraction at a major conference being held in South Australia this week.

Musicians from across the globe are gathering for a sneak peek at what is considered one of the world’s most unique concert organs.

The organ was built by the noted London firm Hill and Son, and first played at the Adelaide Town Hall in 1877.

It is the oldest concert organ on mainland Australia, but it is only through the hard work of volunteers it still exists.

After the organ had an all-white paint job in 1936, attempts to modernise the masterpiece in the 1970s failed and it was broken up, with sections stored across several locations.

“I think it is the only organ in Australia and possibly the world that’s been restored to its original state again,” Organ builder George Stephens said.

It is his job to test the pipes for correct pitch – and it is no mean feat, with almost 2500 pipes in total.

Volunteer Steve Kaesler’s love for the organ is obvious.

“It was the centre of music making in South Australia for well over 130 years,” he said.

Volunteers call the organ’s quirky cherub Ethel.

She is a bit sour-faced, but is sure to bring smiles to all the history and music buffs at the conference run by the Organ Historical Trust this week.

For details on special performances, visit the Organ Historical Trust of Australia website.