Pipe organs are complex instruments and pipe organ construction takes skill and is laborious. They need regular and timely care for robust worship accompaniment. One important maintenance item is the re-leathering of stoppers, particularly of wooden pipes.
Re-leathering is a process that includes the removal of worn leather from the pipe organ and replacing it with newly fitted leather. This process can be extremely tedious, time-consuming, and requires diligence.
Why re-leather pipe organ stoppers?
Wooden pipe stoppers are used to maintain the right amount of pressurized air within a pipe to produce the desired note. Re-leathering this key component of wood pipes ensures tuning stability and reduce costs of retuning.
Like most material used over extended period of time, leather dries out, wears, rips etc. Re-leathering a pipe organ can improve the acoustic quality and extend its life expectancy.
Watch the brief video below of James Leek demonstrating the careful leather-cutting technique. Cutting leather with minimal waste and using a straight edge isn’t the same as regular kitchen cutting skills. Comparable to the artistry and attention of a Gucci craftsman, the technician needs to get a solid feel of the material to prevent the rotary cutter from slippage or uneven cuts that lend to an incorrect fit to the wood. Poor craftsmanship and wrong materials would inevitably lead to recurring cyphers and tuning instability.
How it works:
Re-leathering begins with the removal of leather from the stopper, which is a delicate procedure; being sure not to damage the wood or its handle. The stopper itself is usually restored/treated while articulate work goes into the choosing, sizing, cutting, and fitting of new leather. Lastly, the leather can be adhered and refitted to its pipe. Check out these videos, demonstrating precise steps.
Visit Leek Pipe Organ Company YouTube Channel to view more videos.
Still have questions? read articles below on maintenance of pipe organs. —>
