Royal Albert Hall Organ's Grandeur and Musical Innovation

The Royal Albert Hall is home to a significant musical instrument, the Willis organ. This instrument, standing 21 metres high, contains 9,999 pipes and is 155 years old. It is a feature of many performances at the hall, including the Proms. French organist Olivier Latry is scheduled to perform a largely classical programme on the instrument this weekend.

Beyond Classical Repertoire

While the organ is traditionally associated with centuries of classical and liturgical music, its use is expanding. Experimental musicians are increasingly employing the pipe organ as a medium for new compositions. This shift is championed by performers and advocates like Anna Lapwood. The instrument's vast capabilities, from immense volume to subtle sonic textures, lend themselves to diverse musical exploration. Buildings like the Royal Albert Hall were designed with organs in mind, their architecture serving as resonating chambers.

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An example of extended performance is John Cage's Organ²/ASLSP (As Slow As Possible) in Germany, which began in 2001 and is planned to conclude in 2640. Composer Jonny Greenwood created a piece titled X Years of Reverb, designed for two organists and lasting eight hours, intended to evoke the sonic history of a performance space. This work is set to be performed at Manchester Cathedral in January, celebrating the venue's 605 years.

Contemporary artists such as Kali Malone, Ellen Arkbro, Anna von Hausswolff, and Claire M Singer are exploring the organ's potential. Malone, who previously tuned pipe organs, uses older tuning systems and concepts of musical time in her work. Singer's compositions often draw inspiration from Scottish landscapes, creating slow, expansive soundscapes.

Performance Cancellation in Germany

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Separately, pianist Igor Levit's planned performance of an anti-fascist song, Keine Angst ('No Fear'), with rapper Danger Dan on the German TV show 'Die Anstalt' was cancelled shortly before broadcast. The German public broadcaster, ZDF, stated that the song's lyrics contravened programme guidelines. The show's hosts indicated the decision was political rather than technical and discussed the controversial lyrics, which offer guidance for anti-fascist protests and express sympathy for activists convicted for actions against the far right.

Levit and Danger Dan subsequently organised their own livestream concert. The single has gained significant traction online, reportedly achieving a million views on YouTube and Spotify. Levit is known for his activism, frequently linking his musical performances with political and social commentary, drawing parallels with historical protest music.