Virtual Pipe Organs UK
We build, supply and install organ consoles for use with Hauptwerk virtual pipe organ software.
Typically combining new and meticulously reconditioned parts, the emphasis is on beautiful design while keeping costs down.
We are a business startup based in the Forest of Dean, near Gloucester, UK.
Latest News
December 2024
Four discerning musicians get bespoke organ installations in the run up to Christmas. I’m grateful for their thoughtful contributions to the design process as we all work towards the ultimate home organ. With thanks to Milan Audio and hard-working sample-set producers for making it all possible.
November 2024
Announcing a minimalistic design with maximum functionality. Keycheeks are milled from a single slab of Iroko. With all the registration aids you could wish for the keystack’s regulation overhang is counterbalanced by an integrated Hauptwerk PC with silent cooling and four-channel audio. Say goodbye to cable clutter and enjoy torsion-box rigidity on a slender footprint.
’Black’ (3d render requires something larger than a phone browser).
August 2024
Installation of a dark-Oak four-manual in Nottingham. Updates to the design include fully adjustable music desk and engraved piston labels. Built-in silent PC and RME soundcard allow for expansion into quite the surround sound setup, with plans for a spacially separated division off to the side.
Pre-flight checks in a cool north-facing bedroom:
July 2024
First of our open-framed Oak consoles installed in a beautiful Grantham apartment. The console fits perfectly in an otherwise difficult alcove behind a stairwell.
April 2024
We’re proud to announce our latest build, a four manual console in prime American white oak, finished in semi-matt Osmo. Keyboards are new tracker-touch Fatar TP6 with sixty-eight thumb pistons. The reconditioned pedalboard has an oak shell with beech keys, three expression pedals and five bronze toe pistons. Iiyama touchscreens mounted each side complete the setup, with ample space within the keystack for optional silent mATX i7 computer and Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 soundcard.
Why choose Forest Organs?
A joiner by trade, I’m also an organist and enthusiastic advocate of Hauptwerk. I care about little things, like cable management, ease of transport and pristine wood finishes.
I don’t subcontract my cabinetry or MIDI electronics. Manufacturing as much as possible in-house, I’m fortunate to have access to high-end machinery. My mortise and tenon joints will outlive you and you won’t find sagging varnish on my end-grain.
Buying an organ is a significant investment, costing as much as a second-hand car. Yes, you could bodge one together yourself, as I did for years. If hours of research, soldering and eBaying suit your lifestyle, go for it. But will it be beautiful and satisfying to play?
If, like me, you’ve dreamt of owning a wonderful instrument by Renatus but can’t justify the expense, might I suggest asking Forest Organs to build you one instead? You won’t have to sell a kidney and you’re welcome to try out my instruments in person before making a decision.
As a relatively young business, prices are especially keen to help break into market. I’m not VAT-registered as my turnover doesn’t yet meet the threshold. So if you’re in the UK you’ll save 20% on labour costs versus my competitors. It suits my family commitments to work from home, where business rates don’t apply.
Used or new parts? That depends. Certainly I’d rather breathe new life into old gear than add to landfill. Perhaps you have an existing instrument that you’d like upgrading for use with Hauptwerk? Well-built pedalboards deserve a second life and can usually be restored to ‘as-new’ condition.
Potential customers often need time to secure funds. Why not get your organ built in instalments? It takes around 8-12 weeks to build a bespoke hardwood console. Secure your slot by buying the materials in lieu of deposit and I’ll get on with building it. Pay the remainder when it’s finished.
Can’t wait? I usually have an instrument or two in stock ready for immediate purchase. Serious buyers are welcome into my home for a test drive and a cuppa.
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