Berliner Dom Orgel is one of the largest and most impressive pipe organs in the world. Built in the 19th century, it is located in the Berliner Dom, a magnificent neo-baroque cathedral in the heart of the city. The organ is renowned for its massive size, its intricate detail, and its unique sound. It is also one of the oldest surviving organs in the world, having been in continuous use since its construction in 1894.
History
The organ was designed and built by the famous German organ builder Wilhelm Sauer. Sauer was commissioned to build the organ by the King of Prussia, Friedrich Wilhelm IV, who wanted a grand organ to be installed in the Berliner Dom. Sauer designed the organ to be the largest of its kind in the world, with more than 7,000 pipes, four manuals, and over 200 stops. It was built between 1894 and 1895 and was inaugurated in 1896.
Features
The organ has four manuals (or keyboards) and a pedal board, with a total of 7,434 pipes and 213 stops. It is divided into two sections, the Great Organ and the Choir Organ. The Great Organ is located in the rear of the church, while the Choir Organ is in the front. The organ is controlled by a computer system, which allows it to be programmed to play any combination of sounds.
Great Organ
The Great Organ has five divisions, each with its own sound and characteristics. It consists of:
- The Hauptwerk (Main Division) with 43 stops and 3,722 pipes
- The Positiv (Positive Division) with 17 stops and 1,231 pipes
- The Oberwerk (Upper Division) with 20 stops and 1,358 pipes
- The Brustwerk (Breast Division) with 20 stops and 1,347 pipes
- The Pedal (Pedal Division) with 33 stops and 2,026 pipes
Choir Organ
The Choir Organ has three divisions, each with its own sound and characteristics. It consists of:
- The Hauptwerk (Main Division) with 11 stops and 527 pipes
- The Positiv (Positive Division) with 10 stops and 517 pipes
- The Pedal (Pedal Division) with 10 stops and 517 pipes
Sound
The sound of the Berliner Dom Orgel is unique and powerful. The combination of the four manuals and the vast number of stops creates a wide range of sounds and effects. The organ is often used for performances of classical and religious music, as well as for special occasions such as weddings and funerals.
Conclusion
The Berliner Dom Orgel is a magnificent instrument that has been in use since the 19th century. It is one of the largest and most impressive pipe organs in the world, with four manuals, over 7,000 pipes, and 213 stops. Its unique sound has made it a favorite of organists and audiences alike, and it is often used for performances of classical and religious music.