Many factors contribute to the success of an instrument; the placement, the tonal design, the quality of finishing and certainly, the aesthetic appeal. Long before an instrument is heard, the visual presentation provides the anticipation of excellence.

It is for this reason that we, at R.A. Colby, strive to design instruments which meld into their environment and enhance the natural character of the structure. We believe that the instrument, even in its static state, should enhance the worship and lift the spirit of the congregation. The instrument is art and the art is our industry.

The console leads a fine instrument and should reflect the quality and character of the performing experience. The proportions and balance should be correct to the eye, while the attention to detail should be impeccable.

Regardless of size, the console should be at home in its new location and blend as though designed by the original architect. Exotic woods, English bevels, custom rolled edges and a thousand other small details should simply be expected.

When the artist is seated, the mechanical aspects of the console should become transparent after a simple orientation. Manual relationships, drawknob positioning, expression controls and all other details should be intuitive in location and never disturb an artist's center of balance. If an artist is able to focus on the music and, within moments, forget the mechanics of the console, we have succeeded. Visit some of our installations, you'll find that Colby consoles are the leader in ergonomic perfection.

The value of existing instruments is certainly a major consideration in the overview of any project. We, at Colby, welcome working with any quality components and have had the honor of completing many historic renovations. Our experience has taken us through the complete renovations of Skinner, Austin, Moller, Schantz, Wicks, Reuter and many other lesser known instruments. The quality of our work will bring any existing instrument virtually to, or above, the original factory specifications.

We welcome the opportunity of inspecting your present instrument and providing you with complete details on the condition and viability of renovation. Upon completion of our inspection, we will provide full details of our recommendation for the long term goals for the renovation. We are open to suggesting phased methods of accomplishing those goals and believe that the desired final outcome should be firmly established prior to beginning the work. This allows all efforts to be focused to the ultimate goal with minimal redundant effort or expenditure.

R. A. Colby is proud to have strong resources in organ technicians familiar with various styles of instruments and methods of service. Our firm will provide direct service on instruments where practical. In areas where the cost of travel would be prohibitive, we are able recommend one of our many regional associates to complete quality work. We are pleased to have the scope of service which allows alternatives for any installation.

Our services also extend to evaluation of instruments and archival abilities for insurance purposes. We are a specialized resource with the ability to provide three dimensional archival records for your custom carvings, statuary or other specialty items. These records can be invaluable should an unexpected loss occur. Security is assured by our maintenance of on site and off site back-up data for all files.

R.A. Colby will also provide design engineering assistance through all phases of construction. In addition to being able to communicate engineering and electrical data with your architect, we are able to provide full rendering of projects for pre-purchase review. Presentations to potential donors, required boards or other individuals can be greatly enhanced by our ability to produce DVD presentations complete with graphic modeling of your proposed project.

The skills of Colby craftsmen go beyond those of organbuilding and include the design and construction of Chancel furnishings, Chancel Art along with a myriad of other specialty items. If your project stretches the boundaries of the traditional manufacturers, we would be pleased to work with you through any phase of your design, presentation and construction.