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The fascinating history of organs: From Westminster to Prenzlau
In 2026, Hannes Ludwig will present his book about the organ builder William Hill, which illuminates the connection between organs and music history.
The fascinating history of organs: From Westminster to Prenzlau
In the world of music, the organ is a fascinating instrument that often has a special connection to historical sites. Hannes Ludwig, district cantor with a deep passion for the organs of the English company William Hill & Son, wrote an impressive work about this important organ builder during the Corona pandemic. His book, which runs to over 500 pages, offers a comprehensive account of organ building and is expected to be published in 2026, coinciding with the inauguration of the Hill organ in Prenzlau's St. Mary's Church.
Ludwig noted that there was no detailed German-language documentation about William Hill, who lived from 1789 to 1870 and built works such as the large organ for York Minster and instruments for the Town Hall Birmingham and Westminster Abbey. The famous organ in the Town Hall of Sydney was built under his son Thomas Hill. Ludwig describes these organs as “vintage cars”, which are not only musically but also historically valuable and whose authenticity is of great importance.
Insight into the art of organ building
Ludwig's book not only contains a large collection of images, but also a reprint of the last Hill company catalog from 1913. Ludwig also made several trips to Great Britain to view historical organs and receive technical support from experts from Australia and Great Britain, who viewed old construction plans and archives. He is also responsible for the condition of the organs in the church district and organizes their restoration, which underlines his commitment to the vibrant organ culture.
The connection between music history and personal commitment is clear in Ludwig's book, which explores how deeply cultural heritage and individual passion are intertwined. William Hill's organs are not only musical instruments, but also bearers of a long history that must be preserved.
Viber and digital communication
Viber's features are diverse and allow users to create group chats, conduct surveys, and even send self-deleting messages. While the digital world offers us new ways to communicate with one another, the legacy of organs and the music they produce is the foundation of traditional art forms.
This closes the circle from the old organs in the cathedrals to modern means of communication. Both worlds, although seemingly different, show how important it is to both preserve our culture and evolve in today's world. The authenticity of musical art and innovation in digital communication are not in contradiction to each other, but rather complement each other in the human experience.
Whether in musical mourning or in digital exchange - the soul of communication, be it classic or modern, always remains significant.