Where To Put The Organ?

[@Frank-rh3wl]

Billy… I am a retired Catholic priest living in the USA. I was very involved in Liturgy in my parishes and on a Diocesan level. I’ve been following you since the beginning of this Convent project. I think your idea of placing the organ in the Altar area is very thoughtful and very sensitive to maintaining a sense of ‘the holy’ in a Sacred Space despite the room not being used for traditional liturgy in the future. The picture you showed is a great help to imagine how the project will look when completed. The Patron Saint for music is St. Cecilia. If you find a statue or painting of Cecilia, it would fit perfectly! Thanks for your magnificent videos. Frank

[@PrinnieSophia]

What a wonderful idea.

[@stevenlewis6781]

Thank you Father Frank for your dedication and service. I agree with your assessment and that this historic building is in absolutely the right hands.

[@midnightdreemz1509]

As a catholic, I think putting the organ on the altar space would showcase it brilliantly and still keep the beauty of the old chapel. Thanking you for all you do. ❤❤❤

[@cindyz3342]

Yes!!! Perfect 🙏

[@deborahhymer9315]

Awesome idea.

[@maryscialabba4039]

My husband is a retired historic preservationist and conservationist. We greatly enjoy watching your journey. In fact, we wait with bated breath for each new video! You have a beautiful historic piece in a beautiful setting. He strongly suggests you use a dehumidifier in the chapel for complete climate control, thereby protecting the dry aged wood of the organ from absorbing excess moisture that would affect the overall performance of the instrument and quality of the sound produced. Cheers from Utah, USA! Crack on!!

[@angelaj8958]

a small heat source to maintain a minimum temp would be good too. The freeze cycles are really tough on old unheated buildings.

[@tonysteppan8495]

Great Idea. Gald Billy showed the moisture on the floor. With all that they are doing, it's those little things that are so important. Hopefully this gets taken into consideration.

[@marianbrown1015]

Great video Billy. Cannot wait to see the organ played xx

[@reladie]

So agree dear Billy. You are such a wonderful person, the angels couldn’t have selected anyone more respectful for renovating this beautiful space. Love the placement of the Organ.

[@Glorindellen]

@@angelaj8958 not to mention that it makes musical instruments go out of tune. My brother became organ mad by age 12 and has been the church organist where ever he's lived ever since that young age. He has a 4 manual organ in his living room now. As a kid I would be over at the church helping to tune the organ, now his kids fill that function, which is good because I'm not agile enough to clime into the organ loft these days.

[@Crusader95]

Billy, as a Catholic, I appreciate how sensitive and respectful you are to the former use of that space. You sold me when you said the organ would actually prevent the space from being used for things that it shouldn’t. I really like your idea. 👍

[@CharlenePink-Dufresne]

I agree, as a Catholic, I appreciate your discretion. I think it would look lovely there.

[@christinaanderson2774]

I agree and I'm not Catholic!!❤

[@Dak36]

You did the same with the Chapel at the Chateau.

[@annmcgranaghan2131]

As a Catholic, I am so pleased that this organ has been gifted to you. You are very respectful of this former convent and the beautiful chapel . That is credit to you and a blessing. Wherever you decide to place the organ will be the right one.

[@Sus-tq7sp]

I agree. But before you do, be sure to look under the alter space. Alter spaces often hold space for special relics.

[@claudiayamada8377]

I know that Michael playing the pipe organ in the Chapel will “make a joyful noise unto the Lord”. I think God is omnipotent and he is already in your Chapel waiting to hear that beautiful organ play.

[@earthmama8384]

Father Paul made a great suggestion! It will look lovely on the former altar. Billy, your decision not to extend the gallery beyond its original proportions is a wise decision. The chapel is going to be gorgeous when your project is complete!!!

[@nancyshogren3457]

Oh my gosh, the photo shopped picture of the organ on the alter space looks lovely and like it always was there. Perfect place.

[@johnniec9097]

Billy. Very much respected as to your goal .but can I ask ask to your reasons and reason ?

[@dixiebooth1388]

Love it. It looks like it belongs there. Crack on. Can't wait to hear Michael play the orgsn.

[@kerriedwards726]

I am not Catholic but appreciate your thoughtfulness in maintaining the historic sanctity and use of the chapel. With that said, the organ placement looks beautiful in the picture. As a musician, I also appreciate the care taken in moving the new “voice of the convent”. We love watching the transformation!

[@wenDesigner]

I really thought the altar was the only reasonable location for the organ could go anyway! Yes, that’s going to be awesome! ❤

[@lozinozz7567]

I’m glad Father Paul and I had the same idea ;) Seriously it makes the most sense. It highlights the alter without having to ‘fake’ the reason for the altar. You are doing such a sympathetic restoration to this building. Everything is being added with out the ‘Disney’ and looks very authentic. ❤

[@mmgwife]

The alter is the perfect spot for the organ. Also an idea... leave a small piece of the kitchen for Simon to put in when he returns. Nothing major, but some small piece that once placed can "finish" the kitchen. That way he is included in the final finishing of the room he spent so much time expertly restoring.

[@Clarinetboy82]

As a former Roman Catholic, and a current Orthodox Christian, I appreciate your respect for the former sanctuary (altar space, where the laity would have been on the other side of the communion rail would have been referred to as the nave). As with many other people, I too think putting the organ on the dais of the former sanctuary is an excellent idea.

[@GoldenLady9779]

Love Father Paul's recommendation and he would know! I could see a beautiful space where during the Christmas season you could invite musicians and choirs to host events and fill the chapel once again with music. It would be absolutely stunning and heartwarming. Also, you could hear the music better and see the organist from your office above. 🥰 It would also be nice at some point to have a plaque near the organ with reference to "Donated by . .. ."

[@gilltagg3352]

All my thoughts too ❤

[@11irishrose]

It’s apparent Father Paul has a great love of the faith and the organ. You cannot go wrong with the advise from someone with his expertise of both. I vote for supporting his sage advice. Once again, a huge thank you and job well done to you, Fr Paul and the entire team who so loving dismantled, packed and delivered this beauty to the convent.

[@janstevens8120]

Love the idea of putting the organ on the altar, it’s a sacred spot, and the organ, given its history, should definitely be given a sacred resting place. Can’t wait to see it all restored back together, will look amazing! 💒🙂💕

[@allyncollins359]

The gold tops of the columns are called capitals. Love the idea, and can't wait to see the organ being put back together again!

[@christinegott3699]

Gd mng Billy, I had goosebumps when u showed the picture of where the organ is going to be. Excellent decision. Thank u for being so respectful of the previously consecrated space of where the alter was . Being a catholic it means a lot . May all of you who have dedicated yr time and effort working in the convent be blessed abundantly. May God keep you all and yr extended families safe. Also a big thank you to Fr Paul and his committee & parishioners for being so kind to having donated the organ to a well deserving family. 🙏♥️

[@herbpage1533]

It looks like it's meant for that place. Keep up the awesome work

[@pamkeller5871]

I am not Catholic, but I do appreciate beauty and respect different religions. I think the placement of the organ on the altar is a wonderful decision. Not only will it look amazing, it will keep the respect of the altar intact. I love it, and I can’t wait to see it reassembled!!❤❤

[@edwardulrich1515]

As the chapel was de-consecrated, the former alter space is ideal as the new home for the organ. The balcony will be vital as seating, and viewing, during larger events. From your photo-shopped rendering, the organ pipes do not obscure the capitals of the columns, but rather enhance their presentation. Good plan, Billy.

[@tanjadillon4810]

It looked amazing on the altar. I may never see the convent in person but think what you are doing is wonderful. I was raised a Quaker but find the beauty in all religions so the care you all took while taking it apart and packing it shows how much respect this gift and the church.

[@Sharon-hn9wn]

Putting the old organ in the previous alter space is a fantastic idea. Thank God, you have Michael to help you with that. Thanks for another great video, Billy. Alex, the music and videography is totally cool.👍✌️

[@thomasherrin6798]

Was Alex there!?!

[@jwcinc12]

Billy all your work....the spirits of the convent should be happy and bless you with their protection.

[@paulsackett3613]

The organ story has been great to follow. Kudos the Father Paul for his idea on locating the organ.

[@JamesHostnik]

Billy, Ryan, Michael, it must be so great to have the video records of all projects, trips, adventure, friendships that you have created. I look at somethings knowing that I did it, but cannot remember when or how. So keep "cracking on" and live your life adventure to the fullest. The time will never come again. JJH Michigan USA

[@ehpeachylove]

Billy I think Father Paul gave you an excellent idea and I think it’s a wonderful idea. It will look amazing there. I love the future of the chapel for holding musical events and such. It also preserves that space in away for what it used to be as a consecrated space. Thank you Billy. I look forward to the organ being rebuilt in this glorious chapel. ❤❤❤

[@UCLALJR]

The organ in place of the altar is what I'd imagined you had already planned. When you were unloading the van, I noticed people walking by, and I wondered if, at some future date, they'd come for a concert, never knowing they'd witnessed the arrival. It would be lovely to sit and listen to music resounding in that beautiful space. I think what you've done is amazing!

[@vivienanderson603]

When you first said about the organ being placed at the altar I thought Noooo! You can’t cover up the beautiful detailing there… but after seeing the photoshopped image it looked amazing. You always do things to the very best standard and I’m sure this will done sympathetically and look beautiful. Crack on 🙂

[@kathytaylor6000]

Billy, another catholic here. Yes, yes, put it on the altar. That's the perfect spot. Thank you for your hard work. Amazing man, Billy

[@alboyer6]

I love that idea for the organ. I was thinking the altar even before you said it!

[@joannenorris8102]

I was about to type the same words! Yes it is the very best place for the organ.

[@petat13]

The altar is the perfect space for the lovely old organ. A great idea. I can imagine weddings in there with the organ playing for the brides and grooms.

[@youknowme8578]

I hope some day, to go to the convent, and when the organ is installed, I will bring my bagpipes to play a good song. You are a wonderful family Billy, to save this magnificent building.

[@jeffreystebbins1768]

It does look perfect placed where the previous alter stood. I would suggest placing plague on the floor denoting that a religious alter stood on this place for ~250 years, as an homage to the many religious services performed at the alter especially funeral Masses for the ill who passed at the adjoining Hospital.

[@johnmorgan1847]

You have hit gold with father Paul. What a brilliant idea. It seems like it was made to go on the old alter space.

[@NapoleonIII1]

Dear Billy, l am a devout Catholic and l truly appreciate your sentiments, the Chapel would not again be consecrated, so the organ would look fantastic where the altar was. Can't wait to see it up again… Many good wishes and blessings to you.

[@LordGertz]

I'm more used to forward placements of organs, as that was the norm in the area I grew up. Most were at the front on the left-hand side from the viewers' perspective. Being a smaller chaple, I think you have chosen the only logical place for it since you plan to put the gallery back. I also love the respect you are giving the alter space. The tile is looking great!! Can't wait till it's sealed and the richer colors come out.

[@suzannepolder3929]

I love the idea of putting the organ on the old alter space. I did want to remind you that you said there may be a tunnel or something under that part of the chapel. You may want to check that out before you set up the organ.

[@donnasauer5462]

The organ on the chapel is a beautiful way to bring this instrument once used for church ceremonies to another sacred space in your very own chapel. Great to be able to see this organ restored and used for musical beauty

[@sr.marycatharineperry547]

Billy, as you say, Brilliant! I am grateful for your respect for this sacred space as well. The sanctuary is a perfect idea. I can't wait to see it installed and hear it played!

[@murlthomas2243]

I think Father Paul had a fantastic idea. It would look great on the alter space.

[@lorriemerrell5929]

The perfect place, utterly appropriate!

[@peterjharnden]

Not a bad idea, Billy, but do please first consider where the blower will have to go (I’m assuming it doesn’t fit within the casework, but to one side) - could you place it in the Sacristy behind and then feed a duct through the wall to the platform? This would certainly reduce noise from the blower in the chapel itself… Also, please consider trying to find someone who can come and voice the pipes for you; it’s more than possible that it could sound too loud &/or brash in the chapel, having been previously voiced in relation to the greater size of the Cathedral! Good luck with another great project. ❤

[@evangelinekeeley3531]

Good point peterjharnden. I was also thinking of how far out into the room the whole instrument will come once all the pipe chests are re-assembled. 800 pipes will take a fair bit of space.

[@chriscraver4070]

The organ will look beautiful where you want to put it. Absolutely gorgeous. Watching you working today inserting the tiles brought me back to when you started that whole process of tearing out the wall, the old tiles, stones and dirt on the floor. So much work, but it is going to beautiful. Your mind is filled with amazing ideas as to what to do with the convent. I’ve watched every episode and am in love with the convent too.

[@lenystipene60]

Looks unanimous to me Billy, having the organ at the altar. Great work team. Can't wait for the first recital.😊 Wishing yous all the best. 🙏❤

[@RijackiTorment]

I love the idea of the organ on the dais. It's the best place for it, really. There would still be room in front of the organ for speeches or other such, but, yes, could prevent many inappropriate uses as well.

[@emmarichardson7322]

Your 'gold scroll thingy' is called a Corbel. Good place for that organ. It will look amazing

[@ThePethericks]

thanks i will remember it!

[@cat-a-tonic150]

I would think those are more capitals than corbels. Maybe I'm looking at the wrong thing.

[@CBEEBLE]

It is a gilded corbel plaster capital support.

[@ThePethericks]

Capitals is also correct! 👍

[@maryp2747]

When I saw the thumbnail I thought wow they put the organ back together quickly. I think where the altar used to be is the perfect place. A Christmas concert for the community would be a good time to debut the organ.

[@jillfatucchi8264]

Hi Billy. I think that the placement idea for the organ is absolutely perfect. It needs to be pride of place, so that everyone can see it in all its beauty. Lovely idea and cant wait for the video's of the "re-assembling" of this beautiful and historical organ. Lots of love to all Jill. Birmingham U.K. XXXXXXX

[@loopyloo1091]

Brilliant idea for the organ.sensitive to the historic preservation of both the organ and the chaple.

[@joycasto9006]

It may not be a grand cathedral but that chapel gives me chills with the lovely music playing. I am not a catholic but a strong believer in God and know he makes his presence known in that place! And by the way, the kitchen is so lovely, the floors are stunning

[@chrisatty]

Good idea, Alter space for the Organ, looks perfect on photo shop.

[@donnasauer5462]

Cannot wait to here the first recital on this beautiful organ. Thankyou for all your efforts.

[@Mary.P77]

I’m so happy that you are going to install the organ in the chapel! It will make the chapel a more welcoming place for the people who come and go at the convent. A great place for a wedding, no matter the faith of the happy couple, I think. Your tile project looks great and you’re almost done!! Congratulations to you and your helpers. ♥️🥰♥️

[@AliWade1971]

A perfect spot for our beloved organ. Exciting 🤩. Great to see the kitchen floor getting closer to being finished.

[@marykayosburn3446]

Excellent spot to put the Organ, Billy!! When completed, the Chapel will be so beautiful!!

[@anneperkins2232]

Great idea. When you walk in the door from the road it would be a beautiful focal point to draw you in. As you look up to the top of the organ that ceiling would then catch your eye and bring you all the way back down the chapel to the door. I’m not very religious but it is so important to ensure that these fantastic buildings are preserved in a respectful way. You’re doing an amazing job.

[@beeabser]

It is absolutely a beautiful spot for the organ!!!!!!!!!!!!!! On your schematic, it looks as if God made a special place for it, as if it was always there! Serendipity!!!

[@melinayorke7462]

I love your idea of the organ on the old alter What a wonderful experience of hearing music played in that space.

[@PrinnieSophia]

What an excellent idea and suggested by Father as well. I do hope you have a concert soon and invite him as guest of honor.

[@bclark5955]

I think the alter is the perfect place for the organ. It looks like it has always been there. It adds so much to the whole room! It's just gorgeous there. Well done Billy!

[@bettyebell2835]

Billy, after all the work you have done and seeing how beautiful it looks, I think the decision on placement of the organ will fall in place since you have received help and advice from others. I know you will make the right choice. The floor looks wonderful too. You did a fantastic job there. So glad you and Gwendolyn own and are restoring. ❤️❤️❤️

[@eidlog65]

I am so happy the organ has found a home of its own in your beautiful chapel. Bless the people who gifted it to you as well , they definitely made the right choice. Can’t wait to see Michael playing it.

[@rosswaghorn2844]

Perfect location for the organ! It will look incredible once installed. I cannot wait for Michael to play it.

[@teamum7729]

The previous altar location is the perfect space for the organ, for all the reasons listed by Fr. Paul. Audio reinforcement professionals will tell you not to ever place the music speakers (in this case pipes) in back of the listener because it’s a physical strain on the human ear. The ear is designed to take in the most sound wave length from the front of the head. Something to bear in mind when you arrange seating in the event space. You’ll have that kitchen done by the end of the month. Bravo on all your latest projects!

[@eddidrickson5936]

Billy. consider inviting Father Paul down for opening of the chapel with the organ installed. Great job mate.

[@janasybrandy6525]

I, as well, think it is an absolutely great idea to put it on the altar! I hope we'll get to see the progress of its reassembly! You don't know how much joy your channel brings to me! I know it's very hard work, but it is so essential to preserve the past and also bring it into the future! Where I live (southern California) there is nothing that is terribly old and well built! Thank you!

[@pj1043]

Brilliant idea Billy, putting the organ on the altar space. It would look great. 👍🏻 😊

[@marysell6184]

I totally agree, Billy! You have made the perfect choice for the location of the organ. Well done. I appreciate how you take the time to think things through, as well as consult with others, before making major decisions.

[@corinnapetry65]

I know it was months ago (or longer) but installing those upward lights was genius. It really illuminates the beauty of the chapel.

[@kathleentrued9359]

Perfect spot. Excellent for events and musical performances.

[@elizabethhodge3484]

The Altar space is the perfect place to install the Organ Billy. I cannot wait to see it installed and for your brother Michael to play it. One episode not to miss. I hope you have a gathering of people to help celebrate such a wonderful addition to your beautiful chapel.

[@valw3212]

Christmas choirs/concert? Would be amazing. Also could do it for charity if you want. Yes at the altar would be best. Thanks Billy for taking us along on your organ adventure. Peace♥

[@deannayoung5311]

That's absolutely perfect where to place the organ 👍💐🙏🏼

[@gardenlady1293]

Holiday recitals by Michael for the community. would be awesome. A great way to bond with the community. Great job! Get some sleep!

[@MK-Farm-Michigan]

You are a fast tiler Billey. The floor looks fantastic. That would be stunning for the organ. Yes we agree.

[@adalb137]

The location suggested in the altar area is superb! However, if you're planning on any restoration of the chapel, it seems like it would make more sense to store it until that time. Organs are extremely susceptible to dust and changes in temperature. Once the chapel is restored, heated, and the dust has settled would be the more logical time to install as it will cause less damage to the instrument. Something to consider.

[@ThePethericks]

The issue is leaving it in puzzle form so we forget how it goes back together, either way it needs to be assembled soon and we can project it during restoration

[@patriciacappalonga1224]

That picture of the organ where the alter was is wonderful! Also it would be great for any choral groups. It is so nice to see what you are doing with all this space, so far you have good taste and I can’t wait to see it all completed!

[@BrantAerials]

The organ on the altar space is perfect. It becomes one of the highlights of the room and centers very well!

[@tropicalmom2468]

Love the organ position on the old alter of the chapel, as long as the vibration doesn't harm the artwork above it.

[@amandalevy1227]

wow! that organ looks beautiful there! Well done Father Paul, and Billy and crew. Brings tears to my eyes. Beautiful. As if it was built just for that space. Divine intervention perhaps?

[@richiej5884]

It was like the organ was meant to be there. It looks beautiful in the picture you showed us and I hope it now has found it's forever home!

[@priscillacatania6340]

Great idea of putting it on the alter space. You have to video Michael putting it back together! Love you guys!!💞💞

[@Aging_Geek]

michael has to post the reassembly as a whole new video series and in detail please.

[@patrickturner136]

Just chiming in to support placing the organ on the old alter space. it really keeps the feeling of the room intact and give it a new non-religious focal point. That and the restoration of the gallery will make this a great space for music events, lectures, maybe even small plays, etc. Really an excellent way to repurpose the space without losing it's character. You and Father Frank are geniuses!

[@lovecountrylife-y7q]

I think the altar is an excellent place for the organ. Look forward to see it being rebuilt and hearing it being played! Good luck and all the best! The kitchen floor is looking great, I love those tiles! Have a wonderful rest of your day! Thank you for sharing, take care. Kathy

[@choochoo9506]

Hi Billy, I think if the organ looks ANY thing like the photo shop version it will be incredibly beautiful, and as others agree, very respectful. Love it.

[@susannejudd6343]

I just assumed that’s where the organ was going. Perfect. You could have civil wedding ceremonies there. Whatever you are awesome Your work ethics is unbelievable. You may love France but you can’t take the true Brit worker out of you and your family.We are proud of you all.Thankyou❤

[@MMarinet09able]

It looks to be the best place at the altar. You still have an immense job to rebuild It. I really admire you!!

[@paulinewantland2588]

I think that is a great idea. The acoustics should be great too! I am catholic and used to sing in my church choir and this is just the best idea. Love the work you are doing!

[@lorielove7046]

Father Paul’s suggestion for placement of the organ is spot on. for what it’s worth I feel the space was made for it.

[@carolelee9238]

Just imagine the feelings you will have when you put the last piece of furniture in the kitchen knowing your vision has been so successful, it’s been a marathon but look at all the wonderful people who have helped you achieve this 🌺

[@ClaraSunshine]

Yes, it's the perfect place Billy. I have two others questions. 1.The wood floor (the little stage) where the organ is going to be place seems to need a fresh coat of varnish. Before you place it there it can be a good idea to do it. You are not going to move that master piece again in near future. 2. It can be a good idea to refresh the paint on the walls (not those beautiful drawings) just those parts of the walls where you can. You are going to give another gorgeous life of the Chapel. It's going to be not only revitalize but "magical". I am 💯 percent sure of this. After those littles works done, you place the organ. It's going to be the jewel of the place. 🌟

[@terriesakrueger7745]

I very much like the alter placement for the organ. I think it will go well with the gold on the wall and be a center piece or sorts. Nice work as always.

[@jimriffel6969]

Lovely idea. Former altar is a great spot, preserving the dignity of it's former use.

[@megstewart1561]

It would look fantastic billy, and can I just say watching you lay the flooring in the kitchen is very therapeutic 😊 x

[@bondfieldmarcoux833]

Yes absolutely the chapel screams for a new usage, by setting the organ has such, you have a wonderful place for recitals, at Xmas, or weddings even, in short, limitless art events.

[@meganhall1306]

I think the organ will look fantastic on the altar space Billy! It’s a perfect fit xxx💕💕💕

[@danielintheantipodes6741]

i like the idea for placing the organ. Altars in de-commissioned churches have a fatal fascination for party goers. They don't get that silliness is not always appropriate, even if it is not motivated by bad intentions! Thank you for the video!

[@rebekahvenn201]

Great to see you all again on this new instalment. Im in total agreement with others to put the organ where the alter once was. I just cant wait to see it in pride of place. Loving the music to this episode. Alex has such a good ear for music. Billy your a great floor tiler. The kitchen is looking amazing, i just cant wait to see it all come together. Bet it will look awesome. Take care of yourselves.😃 The picture of the organ where the alter was is great and looks just right.

[@cholman4248]

Fr Paul is right. And you're being respectful of the Chapel itself makes me very happy. I too am a Catholic. That is a gorgeous Chapel!

[@IO-zz2xy]

Billy, there is no other place it can be placed. It is uncanny how, with that photoshopped image, it looks as if it was purposely built for the chapel dimensions, architecture and space. It seems like a divine touch this whole endeavor and plan. It must go into that space. Quite extraordinary. Regards from South Africa

[@christhompson4270]

Definitely a great idea for the organ. Take care and thank you for sharing 👍🙏❤️

[@sharondavies5100]

Yes putting the organ on the altar space is a great idea Billy. It will look fantastic. Will be a huge job for Michael and you to do but I know youwill manage it. Cannot wait to hear Michael playing it. Kitchen floor is awesome what a fabulous job you've done and all on your own. I so look forward to your vlogs each evening as it takes my mind off having just had a full knee replacement which can be very painful at times. Actually seeing you on your knees all day even with a pad brings the pain on😂

[@dominiquelafaille389]

Billy. It was so nice to admire your methodical tile laying. You’ve mastered the cement spreading. The organ will be absolutely perfect in that position. ❤️🇨🇦