For the first time since its foundation in 1951, the International Organ Improvisation Competition Haarlem has not received a winner this year. The jury was of the opinion that the finalists were not innovative, creative and original enough and decided not to award a prize.
The organ competition is part of the International Organ Festival, which takes place every other year in Haarlem. After two preliminary rounds, three finalists remained. Among other things, they had to improvise an organ piece in soundless films of a hundred years old.
However, the jury decided not to declare a winner for the 54th edition, which has not happened since the first edition took place in 1951. According to the jury, the organists lacked “new and experimental improvisation techniques”.
“Due to the corona pandemic, the organists miss the routine of concerts, collaborations and interaction with the public. We think that the performances lacked the high level that Haarlem is known for,” the jury said in a statement.
The jury advises the organization to invest the prize money in the development of young organ talent. “The public should be surprised again with new and experimental techniques and unique improvisations.”
The public did designate a winner, as a result of which the Dutchman Harmen Trimp was awarded the audience prize of 1,000 euros.
The three finalists, none of whom were crowned the winner.
The three finalists, none of whom were crowned the winner. Photo: Haarlem International Organ Festival
–
–
–
–
