Clearwater, FL

Newly Rebuilt Organ by Lewtak Pipe Organ Builders

Chapel by the Sea is a non-denominational church in Clearwater, Florida, with a vibrant and growing congregation. The sanctuary originally had carpeted floors and an electronic organ, and the church, desiring a much-needed upgrade, purchased a pipe organ by Randall Dyer. However, it soon became clear that the organ needed a full rebuild to fit well into the new space.

Lewtak Pipe Organ Builders of Mocksville, North Carolina essentially built an entirely new instrument using the pipes and some other parts from the Dyer organ. The facade, console, and internal configuration were entirely new, and all of the excellent Dyer pipework was completely revoiced to fit the needs of its new home.

After the instrument’s completion, but before its installation, we were asked to evaluate the console ergonomics, key and pedal action, and voicing. Over the course of about two weeks, we made multiple visits to Lewtak’s workshop, and took detailed notes of every aspect of the instrument. Our feedback was used in the final voicing on site during installation, and the end result was an organ that exceeded the expectations of all parties involved. It is well suited to almost any repertoire, as well as all practical service playing needs.

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