The Oude Kerk in Amsterdam is an architectural and cultural gem, notably renowned for its two monumental organs, including the Vater-Müller organ. Positioned on the west side of the church, this organ is a striking piece of artistry dating back to the 18th century and has recently undergone meticulous restoration.

The organ’s name pays homage to the organ builders Christian Vater and Johann Caspar Müller, who worked on this impressive instrument in different stages. The original organ in the Oude Kerk dates back to the 15th century, but the current Vater-Müller organ was constructed in the early 18th century, replacing an instrument played by the famous composer Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck.

Construction of the Vater organ began in 1724, but soon after its completion, it had to be dismantled due to the risk of the church tower collapsing. After repairing the tower’s foundation, Johann Caspar Müller was tasked with repositioning and modifying the organ.

In 1870, the organ underwent a significant restoration by J. Bätz & Co., led by C.G.F. Witte. The quality of this restoration was so high that it sparked debates in the 20th century about the approach for future restorations – whether to remain faithful to its original 18th-century state or its state after the 19th-century restoration.

A recent restoration, carried out between 2015 and 2019 by the firm Reil from Heerde, has restored the organ to its former glory. The Vater-Müller organ was reinaugurated in May 2019 and continues to be an important and respected part of the Oude Kerk, a testament to a rich organ tradition.

Source: https://oudekerk.nl/

Photo’s by: Jan-Willem van Braak and Sweelinq