Town Hall Organ returns to full glory

Auckland City Council
Media release
11 March 2010

Town Hall Organ returns to full glory

It took two years and 27,000 hours to build, weighs an impressive 40 tonnes, and travelled to the other side of the world and back again. Now the time has come for the restored Auckland Town Hall organ to be heard in its full glory.
Having undergone major rebuilding work by world-renowned organ specialists Orgelbau Klais in Germany, the highly anticipated civic inauguration event on 21 March is a chance for Aucklanders to experience the first free public performance.

The inaugural event features a symphony composed and played by Auckland city organist Dr John Wells, specially commissioned for the occasion by the Lodge of the Liberal Arts No 500 and the Freemasons Roskill Foundation.
The organ was gifted to the city by former Mayor Sir Henry Brett in 1911, when the Auckland Town Hall was officially opened.

Alterations to the organ in the 1970s resulted in a loss of its grand Romantic style and power. Rising concern over the years about its lacklustre sound resulted in a decision to undertake a $35 million restoration of the organ in 2007.
Auckland City Council committed $3 million to the project and the balance was raised by the Auckland Town Hall Organ Trust.

With over 5300 pipes – the largest being about 10m long and weighing approximately 120kg – the restoration was a significant undertaking.

Mayor John Banks explains, “The restored organ is more than a replica of the original, it’s a 21st century instrument in the tradition of the finest concert hall organs, a combination of the best of old and new technology.

“Auckland City Council is thrilled to see the organ regain the power and splendour it possessed when the Town Hall first opened in 1911 and are pleased to offer Aucklanders the chance to experience this marvellous instrument in a free concert.”

Organ restorer Philip Klais and his team are travelling to New Zealand for the grand opening, part of a week-long celebration – with Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra concerts on 25 (now sold out) and 27 March as well as the Auckland Town Hall Organ Trust’s free concert on 28 March, all featuring international guest organist Thomas Trotter.

Councillor Toni Millar, spokesperson for the restoration project, says, “Concert organs are an integral part of major civic buildings and events throughout the world and this is the beginning of a new era for ours. When our organ is played now, you don’t just hear the music, you feel it.”

Stephen Hamilton, Chairperson of the Auckland Town Hall Organ Trust, says the trust will continue to support a public programme for the organ, including free public concerts, as well as the development of additional musical events, and the education of students.

The free civic event on 21 March is ticketed and is expected to reach capacity. To secure a ticket visit the Aotea Centre box office or phone 09 357 3355. Ticket numbers are limited to 6 per person.

Ends