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making music
MAKING MUSIC - the history of the organ and piano industries in Erie, PA
The book Making Music was written by Paul E. Fischer on the history of the organ and piano industries in Erie, PA. From the back cover:
The city of Erie, Pennsylvania has a long history in the art of pipe organ and piano design and manufacturing. Beginning in the mid 1800’s Erie became a magnet for hundreds of immigrant craftsmen skilled in these fields and anxious to build a better life in the New World. Local businessmen quickly grasped what was transpiring and eagerly financed many of these people in setting up organ and piano factories realizing that this was a necessary albeit unusual manufacturing field in the developing New World. History has proven them to be visionaries.
Since those early days and up to this very day, Erie has always been regarded as the epicenter of the pipe organ industry in North America. Although there are no longer any piano manufacturers in the city that industry too, played a large and important role in the growth of the city as well as the world music scene.
This book chronicles the history of each of those industries in Erie, their locations and the personalities and their families who were involved with each company. Readers will learn how an Erie organ company saved the world’s original snack food ‘Cracker Jack’ from oblivion. Learn also, about several other prominent individuals whose highly successful careers in pipe organ industry were launched in Erie. With this profusely illustrated book one is able to tour around the city and identify many of the buildings that those proud industries once occupied, some with their engraved granite keystones still intact.
Many of the beautiful instruments that were hand crafted in those early days are still functioning and serving in churches, synagogues, temples, universities, music venues and homes around the world.
Much of what the reader will find in this book has never before been documented. It is the author’s hope that this effort will preclude this history from otherwise being lost to time.
Click HERE or the image to the right to be taken to Amazon to purchase this book - printed and Kindle versions available.
Links of Interest
The American institute of organbuilders
The American Institute of Organbuilders is an educational and professional organization of pipe organ builders.
Organ Supply Industries
Organ Supply Industries is the largest provider of component parts to the pipe organ industry on the North American continent.
Big Dog Panos
High-tech 360 degree panoramas of the Massey Memorial Organ as well as many others. We have been licensed to use these images for your viewing pleasure. Click on our logo within the photos to see more.
American Guild of Organists
The American Guild of Organists is an organization of organists and organ enthusiasts that promote the instrument and its music.
the organ historical society
The Organ Historical Society is an organization committed to the preservation of historic pipe organs and their music.
Hauptwerk
Hauptwerk is the world's most advanced virtual organ software. It can be used to play historically significent instruments, as a practice organ or to control and augment pipe organs.