TRONDHEIM
The Jensen-organ in Ilen church
Ilen church is situated west of central Trondheim in Ila, between the Nidar river and Trondheim fjord. The building was designed by the architect Eugene Sissenére in simplified neo-gothic style, built of stone with a wooden ceiling. Both the interior and exterior show a singular example of purity of form. It was consecrated on 7 June 1889. The organ by Claus Jensen was finished early in the summer the same year. Jensen migrated to Trondheim in around 1837 and built a significant number of instruments in Trøndelag as well as several important instruments in Oslo, Bergen and Tromsø. Many of his instruments remain in playable condition without any form of restoration. This instrument is the largest Jensen organ in original condition. Jensen is widely recognised as the most significant organ builder Norway has known.
This instrument’s tonal ideal contains elements of the symphonic organ of romantic period. The pipe-work is housed within a single, free-standing organ case without an enclosed division. Each division (hovedverk, oververk and pedal) has its own windchest. Within the organ case, the hovedverk is located in front, directly behind the facade. The oververk is behind the hovedverk, and the pedal division is located against the back wall of the organ case. The organ utilises mechanical key and stop action and slider chests. A single space-saving wedge bellows was installed in the late 1970s which, while providing very flexible winding, does not reflect the intentions of Jensen. Plans are being made to restore the original bellows which will be installed in the tower behind the organ. A total restoration of the instrument is planned within the next five years.
Specifications:
Manual I (C - f''')
Bordun 16'
Principal 8'
Rörflöite 8'
Octav 4'
Flöite 4'
Octav 2'
Cornet 2 fag
Trompet 8'
Manual II (C - f''')
Principal 8'
Gedakt 8'
Gamba 8'
Octav 4'
Spidsflöite 4'
Clarinet 8'
Pedal (C - d')
Subbas 16'
Gedakt 8'
Octav 4'
Basun 16'
Couplers (hitch-down pedals)
Pedalkoppel (I-P)
Octavkoppel (Sub I)
Manualkoppel (II-I)
Single-acting combination pedals
Forte (draws HV Octav 4' and 2', Cornet 2 fag and Trompet 8') Piano (cancels HV Octav 4' and 2', Cornet 2 fag and Trompet 8')
Miscellaneous
Hovedverk ventil
Oververk ventil
Pedal ventil
Calcant vekker (Bell to advise the bellows-pumper to start work)
