Upstairs, there are new lounges, for musicians and guests on one side, for general authorities on the other. The original technician's office has been converted into a pie-organ maintenance area, with access to the network of pipes at all times.

One of Barrick's favorite things about this area is that the woodwork all replicates a section of original pioneer bannister. "That's a lovely touch they kept throughout the building. This is a historic building, and there's a lot of pioneer symbolism here."

In all, says Jessop, the choir couldn't ask for a better home. "The new library, the new wardrobe area, the new rehearsal facilities, the new audio booths — they all make a huge contribution to the mission of the choir. They've added to the historic nature of the building, preserving the things we love and adding sonic and physical beauty."

Simply put, he says, "it's heaven."

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E-mail: carma@desnews.com