More than $14,000 was raised for the restoration of the historic Kent Grand Organ at Kent Downtown Partnership’s April 6 ‘Rhinestone Cowboy’ Gala Dinner and Auction.

The historic organ restoration was the target of KDP’s annual Fund-A-Cause portion of the benefit auction, in which five bidders raised their paddle at first bid increments of $1,000. Other paddles were raised at smaller amounts until the $14,000 was exceeded.

As we previously reported, the goal is to complete installation of some 3300 pipes from the historic 1878 Hutchings/Plaisted pipe organ with a new console, expanded electronic capability – including trumpets and chimes – by 2021.

“This was a generous contribution from our fiscal sponsor to help promote downtown Kent,” organizers said.

Here’s more on this project from organizers:

The Kent Grand Organ (KGO), housed in the sanctuary/worship space of Kent Lutheran Church, will be the centerpiece of culturally rich and diverse musical offerings in the heart of downtown Kent.

It will attract persons from the Seattle-Tacoma area and beyond who appreciate the organ and cultural arts in many forms.

It will provide opportunities to hear and appreciate a restored vintage pipe organ, built as Opus 78 in 1878 in Boston. It has 3 keyboards, 54 ranks and 3303 pipes. Restored value is $1.3 million.

The KGO can provide a musical arts opportunity for artists to hear and share their music in a new way, building a stronger sense of community within the city and region.

Programming will include student and adult education, professional organist concerts and Organ Plus concerts featuring string instruments, acoustic instruments, dance and film.

The money raised will go towards the $110,000 installment payment due June 1, with Kent Lutheran Church’s pipe organ builder.

“A determined Board of Directors will continue to look for other ways to reach the goal,” organizers added.