Details
Image(s)
TitleDance Organ 'the Decap' (bookorgan)
Creator Gebr. Decap
PlaceAntwerp (Belgium)
Year 1943
Object number1072
Object categorymechanical instruments with organ pipes
Object namedance organ, organ with book
DescriptionThe organ books are arranged in a continuous loop in a large hoop, allowing the organ to play nonstop. Lighting at the front of the organ is also controlled by registration in the organ book. The organ has 92 keys and eight stops including vibratone and saxophone; the wide range of percussion includes hi-hats, wood blocks, temple blocks and maracas in addition to timpani, snare drum and cymbals.
Accompanying textsA dance organ from the mid-20th century, this instrument plays many well-known dance genres popular around that time, many of which were loved for decades. The repertoire list includes foxtrots, rumbas, waltzes, one-steps, tangos, boogies and mazurkas. Many were arranged for the organ by Albert Decap.
Built during World War II, documents about events of the war were reportedly found in the bellows during the later disassembly of the instrument. The organ circulated in the 1960s in various dance bars and party rental circuits in Belgium and the Netherlands. During this time, the organ was reportedly given the temporary nickname "Apollo," due to the enormous popularity of the Apollo space projects at the time.
Built during World War II, documents about events of the war were reportedly found in the bellows during the later disassembly of the instrument. The organ circulated in the 1960s in various dance bars and party rental circuits in Belgium and the Netherlands. During this time, the organ was reportedly given the temporary nickname "Apollo," due to the enormous popularity of the Apollo space projects at the time.
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