OUDE or ST. ALEXANDER KERK in BENNEKOM

HISTORY

of the

LEICHEL ORGAN

The organ in the OUDE or ST. ALEXANDER KERK in BENNEKOM dates from 1878. The designer and builder was Friedrich Leichel from Düsseldorf. Like his brother Ehrenfried, he had successfully realized a number of organ-projects in the Dutch Rhineland in the early seventies of the last century, among other places at Oosterbeek and at Rhenen.

After this, Leichel built an instrument with 15 registers in Bennekom. One register remained reserved: a Clarinet 8'. The traditional way of building is remarkable for that time: mechanical operation, solid oak and painting with gold leaf.

In 1925 and in 1940, restorations and extensions were carried out. The original character was not affected, with acception of Trompet 8' which was replaced in 1925. In 1988, the first attempts were made for a complete restoration.

Advisor Jongepier and government advisor Wiersma found restoration of utmost importance but the organ should also be respected as a historic musical instrument since the organ as a whole was only slightly damaged. In 1992, Flentrop organ-construction Ltd. carried out the restoration with the extensions. The original work of Leichel was put at the centre, good parts from 1925 and 1940 kept their position. Furthermore, authentic pipe-work was used which was cleared from other organ-restorations in the country.

The reserved Clarinet 8' purchased from the organ of Wognum. The new pedal was provided with 6 Leichel registers originating from the church at Velp. Now the organ has 23 registers. A rich and powerful sound is the result of a balanced disposition after a successful restoration. This organ is particularly suitable for German-Romantic organ-compositions.

The Leichel Organ is on the list of government-monuments.

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