The Syracuse Center for the Performing Arts is proud to be the owner of a 1927 E. M Skinner organ. Ernest M. Skinner is considered to be one of the premier organ builders of the 20th century. During the first half of the century it was very popular to play arrangements, or transcriptions, of symphonic compositions on the organ. Many organs of this era are 
referred to as "symphonic" or "orchestral," because the builders were striving to imitate the sound of orchestral instruments, such as the french horn, clarinet, oboe, flute, etc. to accommodate the performance of these transcriptions. Ernest Skinner was the leader in this style of organ building, and introduced many innovations in organ building and organ tonal design which are still highly regarded today.
Our organ is a three-manual E. M. Skinner Opus 669, and was installed in 1927 at a cost of $27,000. It remains today exactly as Mr. Skinner originally installed it. There are 35 ranks totaling approximately 3,500 pipes. Mr. Skinner was a most innovative organ builder and has received credit for "inventing" several new sounds for the pipe organ including the french Horn, English Horn, Flute Celeste and Erg haler. All of these are on this instrument. Restoration was started in 1980 and completed in 1988.
The building design, high domed ceiling and circular walls provide a natural amplified, long reverberation creating a lush and warm sound for light ensembles and classical concerts without the need for any sound reinforcement. It is the Centers responsibility to preserve and further the use, understanding and enjoyment of the pipe organ and it's music. in addition to promulgate the following:
