Symphony Hall Organ

Today we went on a guided tour behind the scenes at Symphony Hall in Birmingham and had a fascinating time.  We were shown dressing rooms, the piano room where the two Steinways are stored next to the two Yamaha pianos (For the rock stars!).  The guide had lots of stories to tell about various stars he has looked after in his time there (Lesley Garrett was a favourite).  We were taken into the reverberation chambers where there are extra organ pipes and there is the capacity to alter the acoustics of the auditorium by increasing its size by 50%.  He also explained the difference between Symphony Hall and the Sydney Opera House.  Symphony Hall is full of curves and the materials used were specifically made to make the building acoustically excellent.  Apparently the Opera House was designed to make an architectural statement and is full of plastic and angles, neither of which enhances the acoustics.

The organ scholar played for us and explained the working of the organ.  It has over 6000 pipes.  It has a tremendous range and is a tribute to the German company that built it.  Apparently, no British organ makers wished to build the organ.  It was a long job to raise all the money to get it eventually finished 10 years after the opening of the Hall.

Once again, I am proud to be a Brummie.

Can you find an organ with more pipes than that?  I am sure you could find an older one!  How about a tiny little one?  What about a much newer one?  What about the one you love and listen to every week?  I'd love to see what you see...  Another little challenge for you maybe over the weekend?

Oh and thanks to those blippers who joined in my challenge to grab your ankles behind your back!  I've had many moments of uncontrollable giggles today looking at your contortions.  Thank you thank you thank you.  You are great people!