What should you expect?
A lasting creation of beauty, each pipe organ we construct is hand-tooled by our highly skilled craftsmen and represents the finest in American pipe organ building. Walk through the process of creating a new organ design and build with us.
1. We Listen
Every new project begins with hearing your idea and dreams. A plan and proposal is drafted, keeping musical, architectural, and budgetary objectives in mind.
2. Create Drawings
We use 3D modelling software to draw each component of the pipe organ; this allows us to design the instruments in a way that maximizes tonal egress and facilitates the tuning and servicing of our instruments.
3. Construction
Bringing your ideas and dreams to life is our goal during this step. Our experienced craftsmen use the finest materials and building techniquest to ensure the longevity of your organ.
4. Quality Assurance
To confirm that your instrument meets our high standard of quality, each component is tested and the entire organ is assembled before leaving our shop.
5. Installation
Our installation team, which includes the craftsmen who built the organ, transports it to your location for professional installation.
6. Tonal Finishing
Once the instrument is installed, our tonal team completes the task of final tonal regulation of each pipe in the instrument.
“Our experience with Muller Pipe Organ Company was fabulous! Their expertise in design and workmanship, along with a cooperative and talented team of professionals yielded a finished product that was beyond expectations.”
Dale Scheiderer - Director of Music, St. John's Lutheran Church, Marysville
Standing the Test of Time
Arduous attention to detail ensures that your new Muller pipe organ will beautifully and reliably serve your congregation for generations.
Organ Committee Resources
FAQ's: New Pipe Organ
How do we begin an organ project?
Whether you’re interested in restoring an historic pipe organ that has been in your church for decades, or interested in purchasing a new pipe organ, forming an organ committee is the first step. The pipe organ exists not only for the organist, but for the enhancement of worship and the enrichment of the congregation. Therefore, the committee should be a diverse group which reflects the character of the church membership.
Once you’ve shared your vision with us, we gather the practical information we need to develop a plan. We meet with the organist and committee members to share our findings and further discuss the objectives for the new or existing instrument. We then develop a proposal, which can include illustrations of the visual design, an extensive explanation of tonal and mechanical details, and the terms and conditions for the project. If desired, we present our shared vision for the organ to your committee or even to the entire congregation.
Muller Pipe Organ Company is proud to be a member of the Associated Pipe Organ Builders of America. Click here for the APOBA guide to purchasing a pipe organ.
How large of an instrument do we need? How much space is required?
This is dependent on a number of factors. The size of the sanctuary and the acoustic are the two most significant determining factors. A sanctuary with carpeting, pew cushions, and acoustic tile will most likely require a larger organ than a sanctuary without these sound-dampening surfaces. A general rule of thumb is 5 – 10 speaking stops for every 100 people of seating capacity. Click here for the APOBA guide to Planning Space for a Pipe Organ.
How much does a pipe organ cost?
Since pipe organs come in a variety of sizes and configurations, prices vary widely. The typical small to medium sized all-new pipe organ will range from $200,000 – $850,000. Used instruments vary widely in price based on circumstances. For instance, a small to medium sized free-standing instrument which need only be moved could be purchased for $100,000 or less. However, a chambered organ requiring reconfiguration of its layout and/or restoration could be several times more expensive. Prices vary widely with circumstances.
How long will a pipe organ last?
An instrument that has been properly cared for can last indefinitely. The structural components of a pipe organ are made of wood. Pipes are constructed of zinc, lead, tin, copper, and wood. The valves, reservoirs, and gaskets are made of leather; this leather is the only significant portion of the organ needing periodic replacement, approximately every 50-60 years. This leather replacement is always a fraction of the cost of a new instrument.
Are Muller instruments covered by a warranty?
We offer a 10-year warranty on our instruments.
How do we pay for a pipe organ?
Fundraising for a pipe organ project is different for every church or institution. In some cases, every member of a congregation gives as they are able. In others, a single donor may offer to fund the project entirely, often as a memorial to loved ones who have passed. Most commonly, a committee will attempt to raise as much as a third to half the cost of the organ project from a few large donors before presenting the project to the congregation for general fundraising. Click here for a guide to Fundraising for Pipe Organs published by the Associated Pipe Organ Builders of America.
“The quality will remain long after price has been forgotten.” – Henry Royce
