Pipe organ of Basilique Notre-Dame de Valère, Pipe organ in Basilique Notre-Dame de Valère, Sion, Switzerland.
Description
The pipe organ of Basilique Notre-Dame de Valère is a wind instrument with multiple ranks of pipes controlled by separate keyboards. The mechanism uses compressed air to sound the pipes, which are arranged at different pitches to produce the full range of musical tones.
History
This organ was installed in 1435, a period when organ building had already reached a high level of technical skill. Its continuous presence in the basilica for nearly 600 years reflects the enduring importance of this instrument to the church.
Culture
The organ sounds during services in the basilica, shaping the acoustic character of this place for centuries. Visitors hear it accompany singing and prayer, filling the stone space with its tones.
Practical
The best way to experience this organ is to attend a service or concert when it is being played. Check ahead for scheduled times so you can hear it in action rather than seeing it silent.
Did you know?
What sets this organ apart is that it still retains its original wooden case and contains some pipes from medieval times that still produce sound. This makes it a rare example of how these instruments can function across centuries with proper care.
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