On April 15, 2019, the entire world watched as firefighters battled a blaze at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The fire was contained, and mercifully no one was injured, but the international community was heartbroken to see the damage done to this iconic building that has been a spiritual and cultural fixture for more than eight centuries. 
Fast forward five years to the reopening of Notre Dame on Dec. 7, when 1,500 dignitaries gathered to celebrate the restoration of the cathedral with worship, prayer, and hymns. Supporting the jubilant choir was an electric organ manufactured right here in the Lehigh Valley.
Organs have been a significant part of religious ceremonies since at least the 15th century, lending solemnity and grandeur to spiritual rites, rituals, and celebrations. Production of this “king of instruments” requires precision craftsmanship and specialized knowledge, which explains why Notre Dame turned to Allen Organ Company, whose founder invented the first fully electronic organ, to provide a temporary replacement while their Choir Organ is being restored after the fire.
The Allen organ is expected to operate in Notre Dame for the next two years, during which time an estimated 15 million people from all parts of the globe will visit the cathedral.
“Allen Organ Company is honored to have been selected as the builder of the temporary Choir Organ for Notre Dame Cathedral and it is a testament to our company’s longstanding tradition of building and supporting the world’s best digital organs,” said Aram Basmadjian, Allen Organ Company’s Executive Vice President.
Allen Organ Company, founded in 1937 by Jerome Markowitz, has operated in the Lehigh Valley for nearly 75 years and is part of the rich tapestry of manufacturing that takes place throughout the region.
The Lehigh Valley is among the top 15% of manufacturing markets nationwide. More than 700 manufacturers collectively generate an output of $9 billion, representing 16% of the region’s record $55.7 billion Gross Domestic Product.
Allen Organ Company has continued the storied history of production and innovation in the Lehigh Valley that dates to the 1700s by providing world-class instruments to more than 70 countries around the world.
The talented people who live and work in the Lehigh Valley are a key component of this manufacturing legacy.
“As a vertically integrated manufacturer, we rely on employees with diverse skill sets, spanning woodworking, metal work, electronics assembly, mechanical and electrical engineering, software development, and musical expertise,” Basmadjian said. “Being based in the Lehigh Valley enables us to attract talented individuals to fill these roles.”
Though the Notre Dame fire destroyed parts of the cathedral, it also inspired people from around the globe to join together in common cause, donating time, funds, and other goods and services toward its restoration. As evidenced by Allen Organ Company, in times of need, Lehigh Valley manufacturers can be relied upon to answer the call. And for the next two years, an Allen organ will ring out along with a multitude of voices lifted in song.
(Photo courtesy of Allen Organ Company)