5. Conclusions

· The use of different voicing techniques can achieve a more vocal and lyrical sound in Australia.

· There are innovative solutions for poor acoustics and we must not be frightened to experiment in the building we find ourselves working in.

· There is a need for refinement of Australian organ actions. This does not necessarily mean smoother actions. Just as in voicing, a totally smooth action can become lifeless and dull. This is not an argument for irregular actions, rather it is for actions with character.

· Use of flexible wind systems will give the organ more life and sensitivity. Just as with actions, it is a question of taste and depends on the style of building. But it is certainly one of the factors in creating a living instrument.

· Utilising better workshop organisation and practice can achieve better planning and control, and thus allow the artist to create exactly what they want.

U.S. builders, by basing their organs on traditional models (whether baroque, classical or romantic) have also created new and exciting instruments. We have not heard some of these sounds in Australia and I think we need to.

As I mentioned before, a good thing about travelling is coming home. I certainly enjoyed my time in the U.S. and the friendships I made. It also recharged the batteries and maybe even a little enthusiasm has rubbed off, too.

I am looking forward to building the new organ for Nazareth Lutheran Church, Woolloongabba where I will have a chance to put some of these ideas into practice. Meanwhile, I will just have to keep playing the copious CD's I was given in the US.

Last updated 26 July, 2005