The "Business End" of Bach.

"In the days of J.S. Bach organ bellows were, of course, pumped manually.  This duty was usually only given to fit muscular young men.  They would rouse themselves early in the morning so they could go to the Thomaskirche and blow Kapellmeister Bach’s organ.

"Bach was very particular about which blowers he worked with.  Since he was so fond of his magnificent organ he would play with it for hours at a time.  This required a blower that could match Bach’s endurance.  If the bellows were ever allowed to go limp, he would whip his blower with whips until they were once again fully swollen with wind.  Fortunately, the strapping lads of 18th century Leipzig rarely disappointed Bach.  So grateful was he for their strength and skill, he would frequently reward them with a nice long fugue."

 – Willy Apple

See the pumper and listen to Bach here >>>