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    Frederik Magle
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    Krummhorn
    Co-Administrator

Organs along a Coast

fanvault

New member
I wondered if you would like a little cycle ride along the German coast? I am thinking of East Friesland and its Friesenroute, Rad up Pad, which is part of the North Sea Cycle Route. You might be staying in the large town of Emden, which would be a good centre to head out from in almost any direction to discover fine historic instruments.

Along the Rad up Pad, you could visit Germany’s oldest organ in the tiny village of Rysum (1457). This charming little instrument was the first important restoration by Ahrend and Brunzema in 1959-61. Many of the pipes are original, and take you back to another age. If you are fortunate, you might hear the Redeuntes repertoire played upon it, where it may be accompanied by the tenor bell – only in tune with the organ in deepest winter!

From Rysum you might go on to Pilsum, where there is a fine Grotian instrument of 1694. The front pipes are of lead covered with tin foil; indeed the metal pipes tend to contain more lead than those of Schnitger. This organ is a good “foil” to the larger Schnitger instrument in Norden, completed just two years earlier.

To complete the pleasures of a morning, you could sample the best fish-and-chips in North Germany in the nearby fishing town of Greetsiel. Returning towards Emden (still by bike) you can visit the Renaissance organ in Uttum, which has many delights, including Principals with a wonderful vocal quality, and a bright Trumpet, possibly the oldest original that has been preserved.

A short journey towards or from the centre of Emden will take you to Westerhusen, with the first organ with a mixture specifically designed to lead a congregation. This was built by Jost Sieburg in 1642.

I have to confess I have not tried to visit organs abroad by bicycle, so this is a bit of a fantasy tour for me. But what do people think of the idea? We have sponsored bike rides around the churches, so why not visit the organs? It needn’t be for charity, but maybe…

I would be most interested to know if anyone has already tried such a tour, or would think of doing so.

All best wishes,

Roger.
 
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