Restoration of the Lüneburg Bach Böhm Organ: An instrument returns!

Restoration of the Lüneburg Bach Böhm Organ: An instrument returns!

The city of Lüneburg is about to experience a musical event that will make the hearts of classical music lovers beat faster. The venerable Bach Böhm organ in St. John's Church, a true masterpiece of the Renaissance and almost 500 years old, is being restored. The first preparations will begin on October 7, 2025 and will last until Pentecost 2028. There is a lot at stake, as the restoration costs over two million euros NDR reported.

This organ, built between 1551 and 1553 by Hendrik Niehoff from Brabant, is considered one of the most important instruments in Northern Europe. Not only does it have a remarkable history, but it was also the venue for great composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach and Georg Böhm. Bach, who studied under Böhm as a 15-year-old, was fascinated by the sounds of this organ.

The restoration process

The restoration process is quite complex. First the organ is measured and then dismantled into its individual parts. The impressive nearly 4,000 organ pipes will also be dismantled, including a very special example that produces the deepest sound and measures an impressive 9.75 meters. Special lifting equipment and straps are required for this work, and a lifting platform is set up to safely lower the large pipes.

The “Jürgen Ahrend” workshop from Leer has taken responsibility for the restoration. The experts are based on Niehoff's historical model and restore the organ to its original splendor. Overall, the number of registers will increase from the current 31 to around 50, which will significantly expand the variety of sounds.

A place for music

However, while construction work is underway, musical entertainment will continue to be provided. A smaller organ in the main Protestant church of Lüneburg will be used as a replacement during the restoration period, so that church services and concerts can take place without interruption.

Financing for the challenging project is ensured by the German Foundation for Monument Protection, the Hanover Regional Church, various Lüneburg foundations and the parish. The inauguration of the restored organ is planned for Pentecost 2028 and promises to be a very special musical event where the sounds of the past will resound Hanover Regional Church communicates.

The anticipation for this great project is already palpable. It shows us that tradition and culture are kept alive - and even more, that they can inspire new generations.