The museum has applied for a $5,000 grant to replace the bellows of an historic organ and they’re hoping to hear from musicians in the community, interested in pushing its pedals.
“I am super excited about the idea to hear this organ being played again, but would like to hear from Bowen’s musical community, or any interested musician or group,” said Ines Ortner, curator for the Bowen Island Museum and Archives, in an email.
Ortner added, it could be used in things like classical concerts, carol singing, folk concerts or apply to a residency — “any wonderful ideas to give this organ a life again.”
The pump organ was first built around 1890 by Bell Piano and Organ Co. established in Guelph, Ontario by brothers William and Robert Bell, she said. It was first purchased in January 1939 from the Universal Piano Co in Vancouver for $150 and it was the second organ of the United Church.
The Community Foundation grant application has been accepted and now goes to second round, said Ortner, and they’re looking for an “indication of specific community impacts and benefits” for this project.
Email questions or ideas relating to the organ to Ortner at [email protected] or call 604-947-2655.
