Piping Up! Joseph Garrison on the Mighty Pine Street Organ

Episode 32 of Piping Up with Stephen Regec

Welcome to Pine Street Presbyterian Church in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania—a revered space with a rich history and one of the area's most impressive pipe organs. Founded in 1858 by 42 members who first gathered in the Pennsylvania State Senate chambers, the church has served as a foundation for worship, music, and outreach in the city's heart for over 160 years. Its current sanctuary, finished in 1860 and remodeled in 1926 by the acclaimed architect Ralph Adams Cram, features English Gothic design and holds a musical instrument of remarkable character and legacy.

The centerpiece of Pine Street's rich musical tradition is its magnificent pipe organ. Initially installed in 1926 as Opus 506 by the Skinner Organ Company of Boston, the organ played a key role in the redesign of the sanctuary. Instead of placing it above the choir loft, the organ was installed in two shallow chambers flanking the loft to maximize acoustics. Over the years, it has evolved through careful preservation and enhancement. In 1963, M.P. Möller rebuilt and expanded the instrument (Opus R-706), retaining much of the Skinner pipework and adding new features like a Solo division with a state trumpet, solo strings, and French horn. The 1980s brought further refinement under the guidance of organist Donald L. Clapper and tonal director Daniel Angerstein, including the addition of the Nave Organ and Trompette en Chamade. In 2000, digital augmentation by Walker Technical Company replaced failing 32-foot stops with sampled voices, ensuring a continued robust presence in the sanctuary.

Today, the organ boasts 83 ranks and 5,219 pipes spread across four manuals and various divisions, including the Great, Swell, Choir, Solo, Echo, Nave, and Pedal. It represents a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation, resonating through a space designed for acoustic brilliance.

At the heart of Pine Street's music ministry is Joseph W. Garrison, Minister of Music and Worship. A native of Alabama, Joseph joined the staff in 2019, bringing with him a wealth of experience from similar roles in Alabama, Mississippi, New Jersey, and North Carolina. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Jacksonville State University and continued graduate studies at Westminster Choir College in Princeton, where he studied under the renowned Joan Lippincott. His additional mentors include Robert Carwithen, James Welch, and Ronald and Ann Surace. In addition to his leadership in worship, Joseph is the Artistic Director of Music at Pine Street (MAPS), a professional concert series that welcomes national and international talent.

Joseph is known not only for his technical skills and education but also for the passion and sincerity he brings to every performance and rehearsal. He often reflects that people recognize his heart for God in his playing and conducting—something he sees as the highest compliment.

This video features the remarkable sound of the Pine Street organ, highlighting its historical significance, technical prowess, and the spiritual artistry that Joseph Garrison brings to every service. Whether you're an organ enthusiast, a sacred music student, or a church history enthusiast, we welcome you to enjoy one of Pennsylvania's most cherished musical instruments.

Channel Intro music is brought to you by Walker Technical Organ Company and Daniel Umholtz.

For more information about the organ, visit https://pipeorgandatabase.org/instrum...

Merchandise is now available for all fans! Grab your cups, hats, sweaters, t-shirts, and more right here: https://pipingup.myspreadshop.com/

For more information about the church, visit: https://pinestreet.org/