Voxus Virtual Organs has unveiled the development of two new sample sets.
1. The Arp Schnitger organ from 1686/1692, located at St. Ludgeri in Norden (Germany)
This sample set is currently in the alpha phase. The unusual positioning of the organ necessitated the recording of the instrument from four distinct positions, resulting in an eight-channel sample set.
The world-famous Arp Schnitger organ is the most valuable feature of the church, crafted by the renowned North German Baroque organ builder from Hamburg. Built in 1686/87 and expanded in 1691/92, the organ boasts 46 stops with a total of 3,110 pipes distributed across five divisions, played via three manuals and a pedalboard. Its impressive structure includes a prominent pedal tower extending into the transept, a Rückpositiv in the gallery railing, and the Hauptwerk above it. Less visible are the Brustpositiv below the Hauptwerk and the Oberpositiv added in 1691/92.
The organ exhibits Schnitger’s characteristic baroque symmetry, with the central bass tower crowned by a trombone-playing angel, flanked by pointed side towers and flat discant fields. However, the slightly asymmetrical layout around the southeastern crossing pier, including the separated and angled pedal tower, is unique for its time. This design brilliantly suits the spatial conditions of the Ludgerikirche, ensuring the sound reaches all parts of the church—choir, nave, transept, and crossing—supporting the singing congregation.
Renowned for its noble, colorful sound and historical tuning, the organ was masterfully restored between 1981-85 by Jürgen Ahrend. It attracts organ enthusiasts worldwide and features prominently in services, concerts, and summer “Market Music” events.
2. The Harrison & Harrison organ from 2020, located at York Minster (United Kingdom)
The sample set is scheduled to be completed by 2026.
The Minster organ has a storied history beginning in 1834 when Elliot & Hill built an ambitious instrument with 75 stops, parts of which—such as the case, front pipes, and two 32-foot stops—still survive. In 1859, Hill & Son reconstructed the organ with a modern compass and 69 stops, followed by further enhancements in 1903 by J.W. Walker & Sons, who improved the layout while preserving elements of Hill’s design.
In 1917, Harrison & Harrison reworked the Great Organ, introducing the powerful Tuba Mirabilis, which enhanced its impact in the nave. A new console and actions were added in 1931. In 1960, J.W. Walker rebuilt the organ to better accommodate Baroque repertoire, reducing wind pressures and revising tonal elements.
In 1993, Principal Pipe Organs refined the mechanism and pipework. Between 2018 and 2020, extensive restoration aimed to recapture the organ’s 1931 character while maintaining its versatility. Work included installing new slider soundboards, electro-pneumatic actions, and a revised layout that exposed the waisted lower case. The project brought together the organ’s diverse pipework into a unified tonal structure, preserving its historical essence while enhancing its musical energy and functionality.