Newberry College Raising Funds for Wiles Chapel Organ Repair

Newberry, South Carolina – Newberry College is launching a fundraising initiative to restore its aging Wiles Chapel organ, an iconic instrument that has served the college and community for the last 57 years.

The ‘King of Instruments’ in Need of Restoration

Known as the ‘King of Instruments’, the pipe organ is an integral part of Wiles Chapel, providing musical counsel during pivotal events such as commencements, convocations, weddings, and funerals. Built in 1967 by the Schantz Organ Company, the organ boasts 35 ranks and has over 1,994 pipes. Its sheer presence and grandiose sound have made it a cornerstone of the chapel’s services and events for over half a century.

However, after decades of use and wear and tear, the organ is beginning to show its age. The college is now seeking to raise $350,000 to restore the organ to its former glory, aiming not only to bring back its playability but to upgrade it for the future.

Technical Challenges

Dr. Jonathan Hall, the college’s organist and coordinator of music education, explained that the existing challenges lay in restoring the connection between the organ’s console and the rest of the instrument. The windchests, which generate the air needed for the organ’s sound, need new leather, and one of the three manuals on the console does not produce sound at all.

Upgrade plans include digitizing the console, which currently communicates with the rest of the organ via air dash driven components. The proposal also includes replenishing the organ’s memory system, which currently only holds six presets, impeding the performance of certain pieces and limiting the organ’s use during recitals.

Fundraising for the Future

The $350,000 fundraising goal includes $300,000 for necessary repairs and upgrades, with $50,000 allocated for future maintenance costs.

The restoration and upgrade project is seen by many as a way to ensure the continued musical witness of the Lutheran heritage in Wiles Chapel. By launching this campaign, Newberry College intends to keep the organ at the heart of college life, serving future generations, and celebrating its tradition and sound.

To contribute to the preservation of this cherished instrument, donors can visit newberry.edu/give and enter “Wiles Chapel Organ” in the designation box, or mail a check with “Wiles Chapel Organ” on the memo line to Newberry College, 2100 College St., Newberry, SC 29108.

To learn more about the organ restoration project, potential donors can contact Campus Pastor David Coffman via phone at 803-947-2052, or via email at David.Coffman@newberry.edu.

This initiative supports not just the preservation of an essential part of the college, but also the continued celebration of music and spiritual fellowship in the local community.