Organ Tour: The Great Stalacpipe Organ

While not a true organ, the Great Stalacpipe Organ in Luray, Virginia is the world's largest instrument. It covers 3 1/2 acres. The proper name for this type of instrument is lithophone, but it does have a console built by Klann Organ Supply of Waynesboro, Virginia.


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In the 1950's, Leland Sprinkle, a a mathematician and electronic engineer, designed and constructed this one-of-a-kind instrument, which utilizes 37 stalactites. Played by small rubber hammers, activated as gentle plungers, all but two of these stalactites required some sanding to bring them in tune.


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This video explains more:

For more information, visit: Luray Caverns Atlas Obscura 365 Days Project  

5/17/2010 Update: I contacted the Klann Organ Company, asking for the specifications of the console, and learned that the four manuals and drawknobs are mostly for show. Only one keyboard and the pedals play the organ. I also learned that they now use a MIDI device to play it for the tours that go through, but it is occasionally played by a live organist for special programs, such as weddings. Also, once in a while one of the stalactites breaks off, so they have to find another one that has the correct pitch and remount the striker, adjusting the pitch as necessary so that it will be in tune with the others.