THE THEATRE PIPE ORGAN
“THE KING OF MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS”
The Theatre Pipe Organ, or “unit orchestra” as it is sometimes called, was so named because it represents one person playing all the instruments in an orchestra from one “unit”, the organ console. It contains many ranks of pipes that imitate a full range of orchestral instruments, as well as real percussions, played from the keyboards, and sound effects for silent movies. Pulsations of air through the pipes enable a unique vibrato effect that magnifies the sound.
The sonic experience is unmatched! From the power of a symphony orchestra to the whisper of a single flute or violin, the Theatre Pipe Organ fascinates and thrills all who hear it. Theatre Organs can play virtually any type of music from classical, to 1930’s music, the Great American Songbook, Movie Scores, Orchestral Transcriptions, Country Music, Rock, and even Jazz.
Today, Theatre Organ music is heard as pre and post-show entertainment, as accompaniment for audience sing-a-longs, in pops concerts, and as the purpose for which it was invented – the accompaniment of vintage 1920s silent films which are now making a resurgence as an art form.
To learn more about how these magnificent instruments work in detail, please read:
“Everything you always wanted to know about theatre pipe organs but were afraid to ask!”
This comprehensive explanation of the instrument we love was written over a number of years by TOSDV Director John Becica with the help of several other Theatre Organ Enthusiasts.
It may be found where it was originally published on the Garden State Theatre Organ Society website HERE.