The construction of the new organ for the First Lutheran Church in Venice was possible due to the total loss of the church’s previous 6 rank Moeller hybrid “Artiste” that was destroyed in a fire that started in the church’s sound system amplifiers.

The restored mission-style church has an attractive acoustically resonant interior with tile floors, thick plaster walls and a wood-beamed ceiling. The new organ is installed in the rear gallery with its case painted in pastel tones detailed with solid walnut displaying the largest notes of the polished tin 8′ Principal stop. The other ranks of the organ are entirely under expression.

The two-manual and pedal moveable console has all of the latest playing aids including a 99-level combination action, sequencer, MIDI, record/playback and transposer.

The sound of the instrument has a broad dynamic range, strong colors and a rich full-organ ensemble. There are many possible tonal combinations without loss of clarity. The sound is warm without the usual harshness associated with unified tonal schemes.

The specifications consist of 8 ranks arrayed over 42 stops and were jointly designed by Manuel Rosales and Steve Olson, the former organist of the church who also served as project consultant and coordinator. The visual design, construction and installation were the responsibility of Richard Parsons, President of Parsons Organ Builders of Canandaigua, New York. Prior to the initial voicing of the pipes by Duane Prill, tonal director of the Parsons firm, samples were tested and evaluated in the church on a transportable wind chest built for the purpose. Manuel Rosales worked closely with Mr. Prill both in the setting of the samples as well as with the tonal finishing and tuning in the church of the completed instrument.

The organ was dedicated in 2004 at a festival service and recital played by guest organist the Reverend Dennis Gano.