Come one come all, finally, when we know there will be no snowstorm, to a presentation where you will gain a new appreciation for the versatility and utility of systems engineering in a place you would never dream of finding it. The Wooddale Church Organ is the largest tracker organ ever built in the United States and its design, construction, and integration as an integral part of the total sanctuary is a true example of good systems engineering principles in action (although those who accomplished it did not realize that at the time). You will hear and see how the process progressed from carefully developing requirements to design from scratch to the construction and assembly of both the organ and building. Along the way, you will learn what “tracker” means, how a real pipe organ works, get a virtual tour of the organ insides, and hear demonstrations of the many sounds and effects it is capable of. To close the evening you will hear and feel the overall result as you listen to a piece selected to maximize your experience.
Your speaker for the evening will be John Palmer (who has listened happily to the organ now for nearly 30 years as a member of the Wooddale Choir) and your organist will be Bruce Stavem, a truly amazing musician and regular organist at Wooddale.
Please note, since this is now a meeting for members of the church as well as INCOSE, so North Star Chapter members will be here as guests and it won’t be practical to have pizza. Dessert will be the wonderful music from this magnificent instrument!
Arrival:
- Find parking on the east side of the building (there is plenty).
- Enter at Door One on the east side under the overhang (facing Highway 212).
- After entering, immediately turn right and proceed between the columns directly into the sanctuary via door C-D.
- Be sure to pick up a brochure as you do and then find a seat in the center section.
