KIRCHKLANG 2026 - Cinema Organs: Sound World of the Roaring Twenties

–Program–
Gerhard Hartmann (Austrian Organ Forum) dedicates himself to the cinema organ of the Roaring Twenties and explores its sound world between historical film culture and today's organ practice.

–Cast–
Gerhard Hartmann, lecture & organ examples

What did cinema sound like before the advent of sound films? In the Old Post Office in Bad Ischl, Gerhard Hartmann from the Austrian Organ Forum embarks on an exciting journey into the world of cinema organs of the 1920s.

During the era of great silent films, the cinema organ replaced entire orchestras and created tension, humor, and dramatic effects with its diverse tonal colors. With visual and audio examples, as well as musical demonstrations, Hartmann shows how this extraordinary instrument shaped film history – and why it continues to fascinate to this day.

An entertaining and informative salon evening as part of "Salon Post – Sound, Word & Encounter" – ideal for film fans, music enthusiasts, and anyone looking to rediscover culture during their stay in the Salzkammergut.

Following at 9:00 PM: The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920), silent film by Robert Wiene with live improvised organ music in the parish church of St. Nicholas.

The KirchKlang Festival Salzkammergut 2026, under the artistic direction of Martin Haselböck, connects extraordinary musical moments with the unique places and landscapes of the Salzkammergut. www.kirchklang.at