R.A. Colby

About Us

R.A. Colby has a long history of craftsmanship, innovation, and service.

What began as a small supply house has grown into a nationally recognized builder of custom pipe organs and components. Through decades of change, one thing has remained constant: our commitment to excellence and personal attention.

We believe the strongest instruments begin with strong relationships. That’s why we collaborate closely with every client, combining deep expertise with a genuine passion for the art of organbuilding.

Pipe organ in The Mother Church Extension of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston

Why Choose Us

At R.A. Colby, we believe anything is possible, and we don’t say that lightly. Our team invests time, creativity, and care into every project, whether we’re building something entirely new or pushing the boundaries of tradition through new technologies.

We’re committed to keeping our craft alive, expanding what’s possible in the field, and making every partnership a rewarding one. Let’s build something remarkable, together.

Person playing a large pipe organ with multiple keyboards, pedalboard, and stops

Trusted by Those Who Know the Sound

Our clients include respected musicians, clergy, and consultants. Their words speak to the precision, care, and collaboration that define every Colby instrument.

“Working with the team at Colby was a dream. Their attention to detail was evident at every step: from the early planning, to physical design, to tonal finishing. Colby breathed new life into our organ while preserving its historic heart. The instrument sings with the passion of every person who helped to build it, and it inspires musicians and congregants to join their song.”

Johnathan Castillo, Minister of Music and Outreach at University Baptist Church, Austin, TX

“The Colby team approached our instrument with extraordinary care and artistic sensitivity. Their enhancements honored the character of the original pipework while bringing color and vitality to its voice. The new consoles are beautifully crafted and equipped with 21st-century technology and functionality, opening up fresh possibilities for performance and profoundly enriching our worship.”

Garrett Martin, Organist and Director of Music at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Buffalo, NY

“Colby’s attention to detail and commitment to quality are unmatched. They took the time to understand exactly what I envisioned and brought it to life with precision and care. The finished instrument looks, feels, and sounds exceptional. It supports every aspect of our music program and has truly elevated worship for the entire congregation.”

Allen Dreyfuss, retired Organ Builder and Technician, Christ Lutheran Church, Englewood, FL

“Working with Colby was truly a partnership. They listened closely, made thoughtful recommendations, and delivered exactly what our space needed. The revitalized organ now sounds better than ever.”

Rick Phillips, Choirmaster & Organist at Highlands United Methodist Church in Birmingham, AL

“From day one, the Colby team was invested in getting this instrument exactly right—acoustically, architecturally, and musically. They listened to our needs and desires and what they delivered exceeds anything we imagined. It not only fills the sanctuary beautifully, it inspires the choir and congregation every week and serves our community.”

Joe Lippard, Facility Manager, Corinth Reformed Church, Hickory, NC

“Colby’s work on the Naval Academy Chapel organ has been extraordinary. Their technical expertise and musical insight have helped shape an instrument worthy of this space and its tradition. It’s an incredibly responsive console, and the sound carries with power and clarity through every ceremony and concert we host. R.A. Colby has also been easy to work with and very responsive.”

Monte Maxwell Principal Organist and Director of Chapel Music, U.S. Naval Academy Chapel, Annapolis, MD

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of organs do you build?

We build pipe organs, digital organs, and hybrid instruments that combine the best of both. Each is tailored to the space, liturgical need, and musical vision of the client. Whether it’s a private residence or a cathedral, our focus is on creating an instrument that inspires both in sight and sound.

Do you work with both pipe and digital components?

Yes. In fact, many of our most successful projects are hybrid designs that thoughtfully combine real pipework with state-of-the-art digital voices. We’re committed to musical integrity and never compromise when it comes to the instrument’s sound or quality.

Can you restore or upgrade an existing instrument?

Absolutely. Restoration is a vital part of what we do. Whether preserving a historic instrument or giving new life to an organ through renovation, we approach each project with deep respect for its original craftsmanship, while adding modern reliability and functionality.

How long does a typical project take from start to finish?

Every project is different, but most full installations take 12 to 18 months from initial conversations to final tonal finishing. Larger or phased projects may take longer. We guide you through every step and set realistic timelines from the beginning.

What’s involved in designing a custom organ?

It starts with listening to your goals, your space, and your musical tradition. From there, we develop a tonal design, visual concepts, and mechanical plans that reflect your context. We work closely with musicians, architects, and church leaders to ensure every detail serves your larger mission.

Do you offer service and maintenance after installation?

Yes. Ongoing service is central to our commitment. We offer regular tuning and maintenance as well as our Legacy Program, a comprehensive plan designed to protect your investment and keep the instrument performing at its best for years to come.

What geographic areas do you serve?

We serve clients across the United States. While our shop is based in Tennessee, our work can be found from coast to coast and occasionally beyond. We’re equipped to travel and support instruments wherever they’re installed.

Can you help us work within a specific budget?

Yes. Stewardship matters. We offer a range of solutions, from modest rebuilds to flagship new installations, and we’re skilled at helping clients prioritize what matters most. We’ll work with you to design an instrument that fits both your vision and your means.

Do you build consoles for other builders or churches?

We do. Our shop builds consoles for clients ranging from small parishes to major builders. Each is crafted with the same care and attention we bring to our own projects, and designed to be ergonomic, reliable, and musically responsive.

Can you incorporate pipework from our existing instrument?

Yes. When the existing pipework is of good quality and appropriate for restoration, we see its reuse as both practical and important. Reusing pipes can preserve beauty and function while creating something new. It also connects the past to the future, honoring the instrument’s history and those who have worshipped with it.

Do you offer consultations for planning or fundraising?

We do. Whether you’re just beginning to explore ideas or actively raising funds, we’re happy to help. We can provide planning support, visuals, tonal concepts, and phased approaches to help your committee speak clearly and confidently with your community.

What makes Colby different from other organ builders?

R.A. Colby stands apart not just for the quality of our instruments, but for the quality of our relationships. Now in our third generation, we remain a family company built on trust, craftsmanship, and a commitment to the long view. We listen carefully, stay involved, and deliver what we promise. Our size allows us to stay personal and responsive, while our team has the skill and experience to handle even the most complex projects with precision and care. We don’t chase the lowest bid. We focus on doing things the right way—helping clients make wise decisions that reflect both musical excellence and financial stewardship. From the first conversation through installation and for many years after, we stand behind our work. We build relationships, not just instruments, and we would be honored to earn your trust.