Schnitger organ in the Der Aa-kerk

The Schnitger organ is a Baroque pipe organ in Der Aa-kerk with 40 stops spread across three manuals and pedal, offering a wide range of tones and colors. The instrument sits within the Gothic church structure and dominates the interior with its wooden and metal framework.

Built between 1699 and 1702 for the Academiekerk, the organ was relocated to Der Aa-kerk in 1815 when its original church was repurposed. This move marked a turning point that preserved the instrument for the next two centuries.

This organ shows the craft of Dutch builders during the Baroque period and remains a working part of worship and music life in the church. Walking past it, you notice the detailed woodwork and hear it being played during services and concerts.

The organ can be experienced during church services and musical performances held throughout the year. Plan your visit around scheduled concerts to hear the instrument played live in its intended setting.

More than half of the organ's original stops were crafted by master builder Arp Schnitger himself and still function today. These surviving components from the early 1700s continue to influence the instrument's distinctive sound.

Location: Groningen

GPS coordinates: 53.21628,6.56213

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:00