While researching possibilities for our free time in Sweden, naturally I Googled “pipe organs in Stockholm” and one instrument whose photo intrigued me from the beginning is located in Uppenbarelsekyrkan, Hägersten. When I found out the organ was built in 2022 by Gerhard Grenzing, I was delighted, having visited the Gerhard Grenzing pipe organ factory in El Pápiol last April. I wrote to Gerhard and he put me in contact with Martin Blomquist, organist of Uppenbarelsekyrkan. Today I had the distinct privilege of visiting this church and playing this stunning organ. What an absolute treat! Every stop “sings” and has a beautiful tone.

I spent over an hour at this instrument and could have stayed for days! I played Bach, Brahms, Couperin, the Agincourt Hymn by John Dunstable, and even César Franck and Michael Burkhardt. This organ truly can play organ music of all periods — and can play it beautifully. So many stops were “my favorites!” The acoustics were ambient and the organ wraps its arms around you, never overbearing, just perfect!

I asked Martin to play a piece for me, since I played so much, and he played this arrangement of a Scandinavian folk tune. Apparently it’s a favorite of Gerhard Grenzing. [UPDATE] Here is some information about the piece from Martin Blomquist: The piece is called ”Gammal fäbodpsalm” by composer Oskar Lindberg (1887-1955). The title means “Old chalet hymn”. The composer Oskar Lindberg was organist of Engelbrekt church in Stockholm, but he came from Dalarna (Dalecarlia) in the north. The nature there is beautiful with high mountains, deep untouched forests, rivers and waterfalls. The tune is from this part of the country and he often describes the dramatic scenery in this part of Sweden in his music. 

Last week someone asked me what my favorite organ in the world is — I would have to say this Grenzing organ is my new favorite. I absolutely love it!