Inside the pipe organ

The pipe organ is one of the most complex and awe-inspiring musical instruments ever created.

Often called the “king of instruments,” it consists of thousands of pipes, each meticulously crafted to produce specific tones. A vast network of keys, pedals, and stops controls air flow, allowing organists to create a nearly infinite range of sounds, from whispering flutes to thunderous brass-like blasts. Some organs have multiple keyboards, intricate mechanical or electronic systems, and massive wind reservoirs.

Their construction requires engineering, artistry, and precision, making them masterpieces of human ingenuity and a testament to our pursuit of musical excellence. The films in this playlist explore the inner workings of the pipe organ.

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How to build a pipe organ

Curious how a pipe organ works? This fun animation explores the types of pipes, air flow, and how they create the organ's incredible sound.

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In this captivating film from Scott Bros Duo, we dive into the fascinating world of the pipe organ. Through an eye-catching animation by Tom Scott,  see how different types of pipes work, how air is blown through them, and how they come together to create the majestic sound of the organ. This fun and imaginative demonstration offers a behind-the-scenes look at how this incredible instrument produces its powerful, distinctive music. Whether you’re an organ enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this film will give you a whole new appreciation for the pipe organ!

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Inside the Royal Albert Hall organ

Watch Anna Lapwood as she's given a tour of the inside of the organ curator at The Royal Albert Hall.

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Join Anna Lapwood on her tour of the inside of the organ at The Royal Albert Hall.

play_circle Anna Lapwood explores the inside of the Royal Albert Hall organ

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Organ restoration

Discover how great pipe organs are restored, rebuilt and brought back to life from dismantling and workshop repairs to reinstallation, tuning and voicing.LEARN MORE

New organs

New organs are still being built around the world. These films explore a selection of those projects, revealing the many factors involved in designing and building a new organ – from sound and style to space, purpose and use.LEARN MORE

Exploring Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor

Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor is arguably the most iconic piece ever written for the organ. This playlist explores its genius, legacy, and the instruments that bring it alive.LEARN MORE

The Royal Albert Hall organ

With 9,999 pipes, The Royal Albert Hall's Grand Organ (described by its builder as The Voice of Jupiter) is the second largest pipe organ in the United Kingdom. The films in this playlist explore the instrument, its soundscapes, and its extraordinary inner workings.LEARN MORE

An A-Z of the organ

The A-Z of the Organ covers a wide range of topics from the organ's tonal characteristics to key repertoires, practical tips, and unique insights. Starting with Anthology and concluding with Zimbelstern the series offers a comprehensive exploration of the organ from every angle. LEARN MORE
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