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Casavant Frères 2914
Pipe Organ

The pipe organ located in the Convocation Hall represents the 2914th order received by Casavant Frères, pipe organ builder of Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada; consequently, it bears opus number 2914. Installed in 1966, this three-manual instrument using electropneumatic action holds 40 stops (53 ranks), for a total of 2,820 pipes of metal or wood.

The organ was designed by Lawrence I. Phelps, then Tonal Director at Casavant Frères, in collaboration with Allison G. Patterson, University Organist. The stop list reflects the then prevailing neo-baroque aesthetics, with plenums and variety of reed stops in all manual and pedal divisions, along with voicing on low wind pressures.

The instrument is laid out as a visual display. The Great Organ is located in the center, at the front level, with the Pedal Organ divided on both sides. The enclosed Swell Organ is located behind the Great Organ, with the Positive Organ above.

The organ is used for solo recitals, concerts with various ensembles, teaching and official University exercises.

Steinway Grand Piano

The "Steinway" was purchased in 1970 with funds from Ralph Pickard Bell after a two year search led by Professor Carleton Elliott. The large nine foot grand piano was chosen for its huge power and projection in every register. Outstanding concert pianists whose performances at the Hall attracted large audiences described the piano as "clear and brilliant." A generous donation has covered the cost of full restoration to concert level quality. The piano arrived back in Convocation Hall in May 2000 ready for the next concert season.