Gottfried Silbermann

“Famous Silbermann, permit me to write what you have rightfully earned:
Your renown will last eternally. That which you are already worthy of through your craft with a most skilful hand […].”

Wilhelm Friedemann Bach, 1736

 

Gottfried Silbermann (1683 – 1753) was one of the most celebrated German master organ builders. Even today, his instruments still enthral organ enthusiasts and music lovers from all over the world. The exceptional “silver” sound and the fusion of Alsatian and Central German organ building methods made Silbermann’s creations truly original and influential. Thanks to Gottfried Silbermann, the city of Freiberg blossomed into the centre of Saxon organ building and the heart of an unparalleled organ landscape. In his workshop on Freiberg’s Schloßplatz, Silbermann built 45 organs and 200 stringed keyboard instruments.