1861 E. & G. G. Hook organ, Opus 300, at the Holy Cross Roman Catholic Church, Marine City, MI

Some of them are small and could fit in your living room. Others are large and make a mighty noise. All of them are old, but what does age mean in this context? On our next Pipedreams, we hear the music of historic pipe organs in and around Detroit. Some still are playing in their original settings, others have been moved to new homes, properly restored to begin a second century of use. All tell us something about times past, when the organbuilder’s art in the United States was at its first full bloom. They look back over more than one hundred fifty years of experience, and remind us that beauty is as much in reflection as forward motion. Aesthetic archeologist and fixit-magician Dana Hull shares some surprises from her territory. She shares her insights, introducing us to a vibrant and sturdy breed: the Historic Organs of Michigan, this week on Pipedreams.

…featuring recordings of 19th-century instruments from the archives of the Organ Historical Society, with comments from its Executive Director William Van Pelt.

…an appreciative look at America's organ-building past. Special guest William van Pelt of the Organ Historical Society is convinced of the importance of preserving antique instruments, and demonstrates their variety and character with many recorded examples.

…an appreciative look at America's organ-building past. Special guest William van Pelt of the Organ Historical Society is convinced of the importance of preserving antique instruments, and demonstrates their variety and character with many recorded examples.

…featuring recordings of 19th-century instruments from the archives of the Organ Historical Society, with comments from its Executive Director William Van Pelt.