The Steinmeyer organ of the Markuskirche: Sound magic from the 30s

The Steinmeyer organ of the Markuskirche: Sound magic from the 30s

The Markuskirche in Munich has an impressive musical tradition, which is particularly shaped by its two organs. The focus is on the Steinmeyer organ, which was built in the 1930s. Michael Roth, the church music director, describes the sound of this historical organ as "full and soft", with a rich foundation that makes it unique. The Steinmeyer organ has proven to be an unchangeable jewel of acoustic art, the sound quality of which has been retained over the years. Roth says: "Sometimes the organ remind me a little of an orchestra that becomes louder without losing sound quality."

One of the special features of the Markuskirche is that the Steinmeyer organ, like many other organs in Munich's large churches, was not adapted to temporal sound trends. In 1967 a new organ was installed, which is specially designed for baroque music. This decision was preserved the original sound of the Steinmeyer organ, which means that it can continue to be used for works by composers of the 19th and 20th centuries. For baroque music, on the other hand, the newer organ is used, which enables an interesting tonal diversity within the church.

creation of the second organ

The decision -making process for the second organ was a process that began in the early 1960s. The prominent organ builder Paul Ott was commissioned, and discussions were developed in conversations for the expansion or conversion of the existing Steinmeyer organ. Finally, it was decided to build a completely new organ with a baroque sound, which protected the valuable sound of the Steinmeyer organ and nevertheless met the need for a new sound option in the church.

While Roth highly values the Steinmeyer organ, he usually uses the Ott organ for Bach works because their sound best suits these compositions. Nevertheless, he estimates the possibility of using the Steinmeyer organ for certain pieces to give them a romantic note.

The Steinmeyer organ is an electropneumatic organ that uses compressed air to transmit the game command. This technology was a significant improvement in organic architecture of the time and made it easier to play great instruments. But now the almost 90 -year -old electronics of the organ faces the challenge of renewal to ensure security standards and optimize the sound.

planned renovations and sound improvements

There are extensive renovation measures planned for the Steinmeyer organ, among other things, two new registers are planned to enrich the sound. Roth explains that a new solo flute is added to increase the variety of sounds. Furthermore, a new game table is installed, which enables the organists to use digital play aids and save sound colors more efficiently. These innovations promise an improvement in the sound image, which is particularly important for concerts.

The conversion of the Markuskirche from 2008 to 2010 also changed the acoustics of the church space. The reverberation time is now almost five seconds, which brings special challenges for sound design. Roth emphasizes that a more precise articulation is required for faster and louder pieces of music, while the intonation of the organ continues to play a central role.

A donation goal of 300,000 euros is currently being sought for organ rehabilitation. Roth is optimistic because significant support from various foundations and individual donors has already been received. The planned music projects, including regular evensongs and the integration of regional choirs, should further promote the diverse use of the organ after the renovation.