Mustel art Harmonium, 6 Ranks (Paris, c.1890) - a440hz
A superb instrument with an ebony case, Percussion and Double Expression. Photos and further details to follow – available to hire from January 2024
Debain Harmonium, 4 1/2 Ranks (Paris, 1864) - a440hz
This is an absolutely excellent instrument for Rossini Petite Messe performances – in fact, the Rossini Petite Messe was written for a Debain harmonium (the Debain company invented the concept of the harmonium). It has a wonderfully rich Rosewood case, and it has an evocative, nasal tone. Ideal for large choral societies, and in perfect condition for recordings. It is likely the best condition Debain harmonium available for hire in the UK and is highly sought after.
Kasriel Harmonium, 2 1/2 Ranks (Paris, c.1945) - a440hz
This Kasriel has a very elegant Art Deco oak case, and has a 16’ and 8’ rank in the treble and bass, along with a shimmering 16’ Céleste in the treble. It is slightly more mellow-toned than the Debain harmonium above, which provides a good contrast to our Debain harmonium above – some scores, and some conductors prefer a slightly more mellow instrument. This Kasriel is a very popular choice even for large choral societies – it can be very soft, but also pack a punch when needed. It was used with great success in Garsington Opera’s 2023 production of Strauss’ Ariadne auf Naxos, selected specifically for its versatility and roundness of tone when needed.
Alexandre Harmonium, 1 rank (Paris, 1864) - a440hz
We have a single-rank Alexandre harmoniums, dated 1864 – the same year as the first performance of Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle! It has a very powerful and impressive tone for its size.
Choral societies who are constrained by budget, and who may previously have thought of using an electronic keyboard for their Rossini Petite Messe Solennelle will be pleased to hear of the rates for hiring this instrument, which could even be transported in the back of virtually any car by the hiree, saving what can (sometimes) be significant transportation costs.
You can now hire a genuine 19th Century French harmonium for relatively little cost, which will add immeasurably to your performance with its evocative French tone. This instrument also sits perfectly at UK concert pitch (a=440hz). It was used by the Royal Opera House (Covent Garden) for their 2023 production of Dvořák's Rusalka and by Retrospect Opera for their recording of A Soldier’s Tale.