TRONDHEIM
The Steinmeyer-organ in Nidaros Cathedral
The large organ in Nidaros Cathedral, built by the German organ builder G.F. Steinmeyer, was completed in 1930. The organ was placed in the north transept, with a mute facade (borrowed from the stored-away Wagner organ) in line with the nave. The console was in the base of the main tower. At the time, the instrument was the largest in northern Europe, and was highly praised by contemporary organ players and builders. Including the echo department in the central tower, the organ had 127 stops divided among 6 manuals and pedal.
Mainly for architectonic reasons, the organ was moved In 1962. Most of the departments were transferred to the west nave, under the rose window and in the triforia. Some of the remaining were placed in the choir to be used as a separate organ with its own console. Both parts could – and still can- be played from the main console on the west gallery.
The Steinmeyer organ is a symphonic instrument with both German, French, English as well as American features. With its rich tonal qualities and dynamic resources, the instrument was constructed to serve the complete organ literature. Unfortunately, the move and reorganisation resulted in reduced potential, partly because the pipe departments were scattered around in the cathedral.
Specific plans exist for a restoration of the organ in the near future. They are based on the 1930 specifications, with the instrument placed in the west nave.
