Würzburg cathedral organist Stefan Schmidt delights with organ improvisations

Würzburg cathedral organist Stefan Schmidt delights with organ improvisations

The cultural metropolis of Cologne has a special musician in its ranks: Stefan Schmidt, who works as an internationally recognized cathedral organist in Würzburg. With his roots in Düsseldorf and now firmly rooted in the world of church music, Schmidt delights listeners with his impressive organ playing.

At the 1st Berlin Organ Improvisation Days in October, Schmidt had the opportunity to play on the Auenkirche organ in Berlin-Wilmersdorf - one of the largest and most impressive organs in the city with 90 stops and four manuals. A YouTube video shows him in action, 50 meters away. Schmidt's improvisations are based on classical chorales and are known for their stylistic and complex diversity, which captivates viewers and lovers alike. In an interview, Schmidt said that he finds great joy in these improvisations and that he doesn't have to deal with stage fright.

A life for music

Stefan Schmidt was born in Düsseldorf in 1966 and worked at the St. Peter Church in Düsseldorf-Friedrichstadt until his appointment as cathedral organist in 2005. He received his musical training at the Robert Schumann University, where he not only studied Catholic church music, but also learned organ interpretation from Professor Daniel Roth. He has been teaching at this university since 1994 and was appointed honorary professor in 2006.

During his career, Schmidt also founded and leads the vocal ensemble Ars Cantandi, while also working as a pianist. He regularly performs works by composers such as Demessieux, Bach and Duruflé and recently gave a concert in the Trinity Church in Düsseldorf. He is planning several appearances for the coming months, including on September 24th in Essen Cathedral and on October 25th in St. Meinolf, Hagen. He will also improvise live to silent films in Würzburg Cathedral on October 10th.

The name Stefan

The name Stefan, a form of the English name Stephen, carries a history that dates back to the earliest centuries. From important personalities such as the Serbian prince Stefan Vojislav to Stefan Zweig, the Austrian novelist, numerous famous names are associated with this name. As Wikipedia) shows, Stefan has appeared in many cultures and times.

At a time when cultural events and artistic performances are on the rise again, the music scene in cities like Cologne and Würzburg is playing an increasingly important role. Artists like Schmidt prove with passion and dedication that art remains alive and continues to reach new heights. So we can look forward to the next performances and experience the sounds that Stefan Schmidt will continue to spread.

His house organ, which is currently in use in Würzburg and is equipped with five manuals and 87 registers, ensures unique sound experiences. The transept organ gives the music additional acoustic effects that always fascinate listeners. Schmidt really has a good hand with his musical talent.

With his planned live improvisations on silent films, such as "Faust" in Regensburg on November 16th, he will remain in the audience's memory and in their hearts while he accompanies the stories with music.