Organ Restoration Project

Jun 13, 2025

Assumption’s Pipe Organ Restoration Project: A Legacy of Sacred Sound

Assumption is blessed to be home to a remarkable piece of liturgical and musical history: a historic Austin pipe organ, installed in 1921. Founded in 1893 by John T. Austin, Austin Organs Inc. quickly became renowned for their innovative design, exceptional craftsmanship, and enduring reliability. Many of their instruments, including ours, have stood the test of time---testament to a legacy built on both artistry and engineering excellence.

For over a century, our Austin organ has faithfully supported the Church’s worship, accompanying generations of voices in prayer, praise, and solemn reflection. Its longevity, without major restoration, is extraordinary---yet now, to be faithful stewards of this sacred instrument, we must turn our attention to its restoration.

Honoring the original design while incorporating advancements in modern material and techniques, we are working with Marceau Pipe Organs, Inc. of Seattle, a highly respected firm specializing in the restoration and preservation of historic instruments. Their expertise will ensure the unique voice of our organ continues to inspire for decades to come. To learn more about Marceau’s work, visit: Marceau Organ Builders.

We are grateful to have received a generous donation that will cover most of the restoration costs. However, we are still seeking additional support to fully fund the project. If you are interested in donating toward this important effort, please contact Fr. Moore directly or Michael Rombaoa at the parish office. 

3 Phases of the Organ Restoration Project:

PHASE 1: Removal of the console and most of the pipework for transport to the Marceau shop in Seattle.

Scheduled to begin on Monday, June 15th. 

They have engaged a professional rigging company to safely remove the console and pipe trays to the main floor of the sanctuary. 

This phase will require no more than a week to complete and will be overseen by our Regional Facilities Director and Brenna Sebens, who also happens to be a historical preservationist. 

PHASE 2: Rehab and electrical upgrade to the console, fabrication of new pneumatic units for both key and stop actions, cleaning and tonal regulation to all pipes transported to the shop as well as replacement pipes.

Phase 2 is set to begin on August 4th in the Marceau shop.  

This work will last at least four months, depending on the acquisition of the new electrical system as well as materials to cover the rest of the work involved. 

Dr. Mabalot and Brenna will visit the shop in Ballard to see the work in progress.  

During this phase, they have extended an invitation to our Assumption community, to visit their shop and see the work in progress. Details will be given when we reach this phase. 

PHASE 3: Reinstallation of updated console, installation of existing and replacement pipes, installation of new pneumatic key and stop action units, modification and upgrade to the expression system for both chambers and final tonal regulation and tuning of the organ.  

Phase 3 is tentatively set for the first week of February 2026.  

This phase should last up to two months to have everything installed, checked, and completed.  

This will also include comprehensive tuning of all pipes.  

The intent is to have the organ fully functional and ready for use well in advance of Easter 2026. We look forward to this endeavor to bring new life to an instrument that has brought so much to the worship life of our parish for over a century.

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