Presentation of the “Praetorius Bock” on 19 October – a special sound experience for the community
The Christuskirche congregation in Darmstadt invites you to the ceremonial presentation of its new bagpipe on Sunday, October 19. This exceptional instrument, a "Praetorius Bock" , was purchased with the support of the Hans Erich and Marie Elfriede Dotter Foundation and will add a fascinating timbre to the congregation's musical repertoire.
Crafted from high-quality service tree wood and equipped with water buffalo horns as natural sound amplifiers, the new bagpipe combines precision craftsmanship with exceptional acoustics. Visitors can view the instrument up close after the service and learn more about its playing technique.
Unique combination: organ and bagpipes
The combination of organ and bagpipes is rare and sonically appealing. The congregation had its first encounter of this kind during a musical service in 2024 – back then with a so-called "Hümmelchen," a smaller bagpipe. The positive experience prompted the purchase of a full-fledged instrument, which will be used for musical services, concerts, and special events in the future.
"Both instruments produce sounds in a similar way—through airflow and vibration," explains the congregation's cantor and organist. "This creates an extraordinary harmony rarely heard in church music."
Sound diversity and new musical possibilities
With the new bagpipes, Christ Church is expanding its repertoire to include new forms of expression. In addition to traditional melodies, chorales and variations can also be presented in a new guise. The interplay with the organ opens up unusual sonic spaces – between the Middle Ages, the Baroque, and the modern.
new world of sound together with all music lovers on October 19th .
(Eberstadt - Red/PM)
