The Peabody Memorial Organ
The Peabody Memorial Organ
Made by Ernest M. Skinner, 1925
St. Ann’s pipe organ was built in 1925 by Ernest M. Skinner (Opus #524), and is the third instrument to be installed since the church opened in 1847. The organ was designed by Louis Robert and was the gift to the church from financier George Foster Peabody in memory of his brother. Called the Peabody Memorial Organ, instrument comprises 4,718 pipes, ranging from 2 inches to 32 feet in length, as well as 20 chimes and a 61-note celesta. On Monday, November 30, 1925, the Brooklyn Daily Eagle published a report on the dedication of the organ the day before.
In 1999, it was recognized by the Organ Historical Society as “An Historic Instrument of Special Merit” — the musical equivalent of Landmark status. Many organs undergo “modernization” and changes in their tonality and character, however ours is the largest essentially unchanged E.M. Skinner organ in New York City and much valued for its original qualities. Over the years, the organ has developed many silent notes and failings calling for restoration, which is a continual funding challenge.
Generations of organists have sought the opportunity to play this instrument, and their audiences attest to the special nature of this instrument. We at St. Ann’s prize our Skinner organ for the beauty and power it brings to our worship, particularly at our main service at 11:15 am on Sundays.
First Tuesday One O’Clock Organ Concerts
Once a month, the public is invited to hear some of New York City’s leading organists play St. Ann’s excellent Skinner organ in the First Tuesday One O’Clock Organ Concert series. Curated by St. Ann’s Director of Music and Organist Gregory D’Agostino, these concerts take place on the first Tuesday of the month at 1:00 pm. Admission is free, however donations in support of the restoration fund for the historic organ are welcome. The schedule of the 2019-2020 concerts is available here.