The Gary Bieck 3/19 Wurlitzer
In the spring of 1996, Gary Bieck's long-time dream of owning a residence pipe organ became a reality when he purchased a 2/5 Wangerin organ.
This instrument was installed in his music room, a space attached to his home that had previously functioned as both a cheese factory and a commercial flower shop. While the Wangerin produced a lovely sound, Gary's fascination grew after hearing a theatre organ installed in the home of another DTOS member.
Gary decided to build a proper pipe chamber to accommodate a larger theatre organ. The resulting space measures 16 by 24 feet with a 14-foot ceiling. The Wangerin was then sold to another private individual.
This instrument was installed in his music room, a space attached to his home that had previously functioned as both a cheese factory and a commercial flower shop. While the Wangerin produced a lovely sound, Gary's fascination grew after hearing a theatre organ installed in the home of another DTOS member.
Gary decided to build a proper pipe chamber to accommodate a larger theatre organ. The resulting space measures 16 by 24 feet with a 14-foot ceiling. The Wangerin was then sold to another private individual.
The Wurlitzer's Journey
The three-manual, 19-rank Wurlitzer currently located at the Bieck Residence began its journey as Wurlitzer Opus 1700, a 2-manual, 6-rank "Style D" organ. It was originally installed in the Grand Theatre in Malone, New York. In 1929, the organ was removed and relocated to Cortland, New York. It was then moved again to Geneva, New York, in 1932. Ultimately, it was purchased by Charles Schubert for a home installation that never happened.
In 2000, Gary purchased the instrument, excluding its console, restored it, and installed it in his new chamber. He later added more Wurlitzer wind chests and pipework. After the very organ that had inspired his passion for theatre organ was sold, Gary acquired its ten-horsepower blower, a beautiful three-manual console, and several other components.
In 2000, Gary purchased the instrument, excluding its console, restored it, and installed it in his new chamber. He later added more Wurlitzer wind chests and pipework. After the very organ that had inspired his passion for theatre organ was sold, Gary acquired its ten-horsepower blower, a beautiful three-manual console, and several other components.
The Brass Saxophone is clearly visible through the chamber viewing window.
Growing Into the Space
With the organ speaking into the former flower shop, it soon became apparent that a larger music room was needed. In May 2000, the room was enlarged to 22 by 43 feet, improving both the acoustics and seating capacity for the growing number of concert attendees.
Today, the annual DTOS "Ice Cream Social" held at the Bieck Residence has become one of the premier events on our calendar. Regularly featuring top-rated artists and Gary's prize-winning gardens, it's a feast for the eyes and the ears!
Today, the annual DTOS "Ice Cream Social" held at the Bieck Residence has become one of the premier events on our calendar. Regularly featuring top-rated artists and Gary's prize-winning gardens, it's a feast for the eyes and the ears!
Specifications
Main Chamber
16' Open Diapason/Diaphone
16' Concert Flute/Bourdon
Flute Celeste
Clarinet
Saxophone
Violin
Violin Celeste
Quintadena
Kinura
Orchestral Oboe
Oboe Horn
Salicional
Salicional Celeste
Vox Humana
English Post Horn
16' Trumpet ("Style D")/Trombone
16' Tuba Horn
16' Tibia
Horn Diapason
Xylophone
Glockenspiel
Tuned Sleigh Bells
Piano
Chimes
Chrysoglott/Chrysoglott Celeste
Accordion
Toy Counter & Traps
16' Open Diapason/Diaphone
16' Concert Flute/Bourdon
Flute Celeste
Clarinet
Saxophone
Violin
Violin Celeste
Quintadena
Kinura
Orchestral Oboe
Oboe Horn
Salicional
Salicional Celeste
Vox Humana
English Post Horn
16' Trumpet ("Style D")/Trombone
16' Tuba Horn
16' Tibia
Horn Diapason
Xylophone
Glockenspiel
Tuned Sleigh Bells
Piano
Chimes
Chrysoglott/Chrysoglott Celeste
Accordion
Toy Counter & Traps