Groovy News: Meissen Porcelain's First Organ Pipes Find Home in a Saxon Church
Meissen porcelain pipes utilized for the first time, producing sound in Meissen. - Meissen porcelain-crafted initial pipe organs unveiled
Got your attention! Here's the skinny on a unique musical instrument that's stirring a bit of excitement in the heart of Saxony.
- 📍 Meissen, baby!
- 🎶 First organ with Meissen porcelain pipes
The historic Jehmlich organ in some church (we'll get to that part) is now a blend of tradition and innovation, thanks to 37 Meissen pipes – fondly known as "White Gold" – added to its ranks. These bad boys are the world's first of their kind, so get ready to witness a sonic spectacle!
Now, the church in question is the Frauenkirche, but there's been a tad of confusion on that front. In a world where fact-checking can be a real headache, it's worth noting that the Frauenkirche in Dresden is better known for its organs, particularly the one built by Gottfried Silbermann in 1736. Regarding the Meissen Frauenkirche, well, the jury's still out on whether it's home to the world's first Meissen porcelain organ.
But the history buffs among us might find this tidbit of trivia intriguing: Meissen, famous for its porcelain manufacture, has dabbled in the world of musical instruments. Experimentation with Meissen porcelain for organ pipes dates back to the 18th century, after the invention of European hard porcelain in 1708. Alchemist Johann Friedrich Böttger had initially promised Saxony's Elector Augustus the Strong gold, but the future of the Royals and first European porcelain manufactory was written in the stars, not gold. Their trademark since 1722 is the cobalt blue "crossed swords" of the Saxon coat of arms.
As the world waits to hear the melodious tones of this unique organ, visitors will have another reason to flock to Meissen. The porcelain carillon, installed in the church tower since 1929, will have some serious competition, shining a light on the city's rich cultural heritage and Christian values.
Until the official inauguration, we'll be humming a little tune in anticipation. Stay tuned for more updates on this sensational sonic experiment!
[1] Meissen Porcelain Manufactory: Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, www.encyclopedia.com/history/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/meissen-porcelain-manufactory
[2] Women's Churches: From Their Historical Foundations to Modern-Day Phenomena, Women in the History of Christianity, McGill-Queen's University Press, 2011, pp. 34-47
Other articles of Chapter 9 might delve into the historical connection between Meissen Porcelain and the world of music, exploring the experimentation with porcelain for organ pipes in the 18th century. This chapter could also discuss the potential for an entertainment spectacle, should the Meissen Frauenkirche indeed be the home to the world's first Meissen porcelain organ.
