The new organ for the Church S.Antonio dei Portoghesi in Rome is a unique and original project made by Jean Guillou.

The instrument adoptes a « sensitive » key-action by the use of special electronics: this technology allows to play the organ simulating a mechanical action organ.

Unlike the traditional electric transmission, this system allows the organist to control the attack of the sound of the pipe otherwise denied by the “fast opening" of the pallet.

It is possible to reach this goal inserting a special sensor in every key able to instantly read the position of the key during its movement and to transmit with accuracy these information to the corresponding pallet in the instrument. In the organ a special device is installed to control the movement of the pallet: it receives the signals from the sensor of the key and transmits its position to the pallet (like a mechanical action) with no delay: that means the movement of the pallet follows exactly the movement f the key.

The result is evident in the acoustic behave of the pipes that match the one obtainable with a mechanical organ.

This system can be useful in those cases in which the architectural limitations of the church do not allow the realization of a mechanical organ but where there is the intention to realize an instrument close to these characteristics.

Look at the "Sensitive" System working (turn on the audio) by clicking this picture:

Location of the Church on Google.

Chiesa di S.Antonio dei Portoghesi
Via dei Portoghesi, 2
00186 - ROMA

The four manual console, with a modern « elliptical » design, is normally located close to the altar but is moveable in any position of the church.
 

Copyright ©2010 IPSAR - Foto di G.Proietti

The organ is positioned on the balcony over the main entrance while the Positivo is located in a cell near the altar.
The main wind chests are classical slider-windchests made of sodi oak while some others like the ones of Solo have direct pallet valve.

Wind pressure for different divisions expressed in mm/h2o are:

I° Manual - Positivo ………….……… mm. 75
II° Manual – G.Organo ………………. mm. 80
III° Manual – Recitativo ………………. mm. 95
IV° Manual – Solo …….………………. mm. 95
Oboe – Solo …………………….. ........mm. 85
Pedal ……………………..……………. mm. 110
 

Organ Disposition

Four keyboards 61 keys (C - c5)
Pedalboard 32 keys (C - g3)