All to often in life, a man's accomplishments are not acknowledged
until after his passing...if then.  I wish to pay tribute to Brian
Flora, for I have seen first hand an example of the Busker organs
that he built.

A short time after Brian died, Jan, his lovely wife called and asked a
favor.  A Flora organ had been sold to a client just 40 miles from San
Antonio, and there was something wrong with the organ.  Could I help?

In short order the organ was in my shop in it's custom designed, foam
lined carrying case, in itself a work of art.  When the organ was
removed, I was more than surprised...I stood in awe.  I have been
openly critical of the John Smith organ, however, Brian took John's
design and carried it to new heights, something that I was unable to
do.

Everything about the organ showed minute attention to detail.  In
short, it was as perfect as a mechanical piece can be.  The problem
was minor, and was repaired.  Only then was I able to hear the music,
and my oh my, what a sound!  Perfect voicing on the pipes giving an
even and crisp sound.  Wonderful seems like an inadequate word, but
is the only one I can come up with right now.

Currently in my shop sits a Busker organ made "across the pond" which
cost a lot more than Brian's beautiful machine.  In my opinion it
borders on being crap.  The wood joints are put together with hot
melt glue, the leather on the bellows was affixed with contact
cement...or SOMETHING akin to it.  The plywood is the cheapest grade
which splintered when I attempted to scrape the glue off.  A sanding
belt of any kind was useless.  Shoddy seems like the best blanket
condemnation.

In all fairness, I must state that this "organ" was NOT made by Raffin
or Jaeger & Brommer, for I have seen their products and they  know
the meaning of the word "quality".

So, Brian, this accolade is a bit late, however, wherever you are
cranking an organ and doing your magic tricks, I know your audience
is having one hell of a time!

Peace.

Ed Gaida
San Antonio, Texas