Current status
The Strahov organ represents a link between the rich musical past and our present. The design of the organ by the builder Heinrich Schiffner from 1899 has placed the large Strahov instrument among the most beautiful Romantic organs in Bohemia.
Today, however, the two instruments in the monastery basilica are in an unsatisfactory state, caused mainly by numerous insensitive reconstructions, especially those from the socialist era.
The organ machinery was practically removed in the 1980s and only the unique Baroque organ cases and a few pipes from the previous stylistic periods have survived to this day.
The quality of these reconstructions was also affected to a considerable extent by lack of financial resources, poor quality materials and inadequate conservation care.
The electromagnetic system of the large organ, which is in a deplorable condition, is a risk for everyday use. The technical condition of the small organ - in particular the defects of the pneumatic tract - has long made it impossible to use the instrument.
Now we are looking for ways to restore the instruments of Strahov Basilica. We would like them to become a magnet and inspiration again as in the past, when they attracted many musicians and important composers. Our intention is to let the unique space of the basilica ring again with an organ that:
- cover the current needs of the church operation - concert or liturgical,
- will build on their artistically high-quality predecessors.
The planned investment will certainly go beyond the horizon of three to four generations. We are at the beginning of a challenging journey that we believe is deeply meaningful and will bring precious value to us and our successors.
