Toad Hollow Photography

The instruments that we use to create music can sometimes be just as much works of art as the music they produce.  We’re heading back today to the Metchosin Pioneer Museum where we were given after-hours access to the entire facility for our photo-shoot from our best friends dad, The Curator.  This post is a continuation of our series “The Antiques Toad Show“.

As the Mudpuppy and myself were working our way through the upstairs section of the Museum, shooting all sorts of interesting finds, we came across something wonderful and unexpected.  We found ourselves an old, antique organ.

Now, there is no argument that it has been quite the while since anyone last tickled these ivories to pull out some of the rich and wonderful tones that are hidden in this classic instrument.  But it is no less a complete work of art because of this.  The fine craftsmanship that goes into the design and creation of an instrument like this is a dying art itself.  Even as time begins the process of reclaiming all the individual components that go into the creation of such an instrument, beauty remains behind in the gentle wear marks that are found on the keys and the levers.  Each one of these marks represents someone lovingly caressing the keys, drawing warm and beautiful sounds out through the direct connection between the organ and it’s player.  In essence the player becomes one with the instrument itself, and through this process the magic of music emits.

The fronts of some of the keys have since fallen off, and one of the black keys has fallen in…  yet still, the beauty in both the form and the silence it now articulates is nothing short of a siren’s song.

What wonderful wear marks we see in these Mouse Proof Pedals.  Whose feet pumped these pedals, emanating the dulcimer tones that come from such an incredible old instrument?  Did folks gather around the organ during family get-togethers and holidays to fill the house with music, laughter and joy?  Or was this piece a cornerstone to a local church?  No matter what it’s story, we were glad to be a part of it.

Life is short my friends, and although this fabulous old organ no longer spins its tales for everyone to enjoy, all of its stories remain locked within.  It’s up to us through the act of remembrance to keep the spirit alive.  This is a note that we can all feel resonate within us, if only we listen for it.

We really do appreciate your visit here today, thanks for taking the time.  Please feel free to leave us any comments you may have as we love to hear from all our visitors.