New York firm says it plans to keep Wanamaker Organ in place
Landlord TF Cornerstone said in a statement, "We are committed to the preservation of the organ and ensuring it remains a cherished part of the space.”
The Wanamaker Grand Court Organ’s landlord said Thursday that even as talks about the future of the organ continue, the company intends to keep the instrument in place.
“TF Cornerstone recognizes the historical and cultural significance of the organ in the Wanamaker Building,” read a statement from the New York firm. “Our company has a long history in New York as a partner to Carnegie Hall and understands the way music resonates through a city. We are committed to the preservation of the organ and ensuring it remains a cherished part of the space.”
Left open are questions of access to and care of the instrument, as well as how often it would be played after the expected mid-March departure of Macy’s from the Wanamaker Building’s retail spaces. Macy’s has contributed toward upkeep of the enormous instrument, which is currently heard in twice-daily recitals every day except Sunday.
With the department store’s withdrawal approaching, TF Cornerstone said company officials were arranging to meet with the Friends of the Wanamaker Organ “and look forward to working closely with them, Macy’s and other stakeholders to determine the best path forward for the organ’s future care and stewardship.”
“Wow. Wonderful. That’s great,” said Ray Biswanger, executive director of the Friends of the Wanamaker Organ, in response to the statement. “TF Cornerstone pays us a great honor for the work we’re doing and we look forward to a long, successful partnership working with them preserving the Wanamaker Organ for the many generations in the future.”
Paul Steinke, executive director of the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, said he had recently met with TF Cornerstone officials, and was optimistic about the future of the organ and its home, the Wanamaker Grand Court.
“We are encouraged by the tone and content of TF Cornerstone’s statement about the organ,” Steinke said, “and its squares with our own impressions of how they are approaching the future of the landmark Wanamaker Building and its history and traditions.”
Organ recitals are expected to continue at Macy’s in Center City, 1300 Market St., Monday to Saturday at noon and 5:30 p.m., through March 22 or 23. wanamakerorgan.com.