ROTTERDAM, 26 June 2025 – The Marcussen organ in the Laurenskerk has played its final notes after 52 years. A full restoration will now begin as part of a broader innovation project.
Image: In a light-hearted moment, “Firma Joop Sloop” — played by Joris Lutz — removed the first organ pipe and handed it to Wubbo Tempel, chairman of the Laurenskerk Foundation, and organist Hayo Boerema. Photo: ANP Business/Frank de Roo
Laurenskerk organ begins two-year restoration
The Marcussen main organ in Rotterdam’s Laurenskerk was heard for the last time on Wednesday evening, 26 June 2025. In front of an audience of hundreds, titular organist Hayo Boerema performed a farewell concert marking the end of over five decades of continuous use.
Following the final chord, the first pipe was ceremoniously removed. This symbolic act was performed by performer and presenter Joris Lutz, appearing as “Firma Joop Sloop”. The pipe was then handed over to Wubbo Tempel, chairman of the Laurenskerk Foundation (Stichting Laurenskerk), and organist Hayo Boerema.
The 23-metre-high organ, installed in 1973, consists of approximately 7,600 pipes and has accumulated over 50,000 hours of use. It is now scheduled for an extensive two-year restoration.
Cleaning, repair and technical upgrades
During the restoration, each of the pipes and mechanical components will be cleaned, polished and repaired or replaced where necessary. The outer appearance of the instrument will remain intact, but key technical updates will be implemented. The organ will become electrically controllable and playable via a mobile console.
Reflecting on the moment, Hayo Boerema remarked: “It feels a bit like saying goodbye. But to be honest, the organ was really on its last legs and had been faltering a bit too often lately. It will be tough to go two years without our main organ, but it’s all worth it.”
Laurenskerk prepares for the future with hyperorgan
The restoration forms part of a wider initiative titled Hyperorgel Rotterdam, aimed at reimagining the future of organ music in the city. Alongside the refurbishment, a digitally playable pipe organ – referred to as a “hyperorgan” – will be constructed in the choir section of the Laurenskerk.
This new instrument is designed to serve a wider range of musicians beyond traditional organists. It is intended to produce sounds suitable for contemporary genres and cross-disciplinary performances. “We are also creating organ programmes for new audiences,” said Elles van Vegchel, director of the Laurenskerk. “We connect contemporary artists and composers from all genres to the organ – from hip-hop to techno to jazz. This results in new repertoire and attracts new listeners. We look forward to the moment the hyperorgan is introduced in the Laurenskerk.”
Directions to Laurenskerk
The Laurenskerk is located in the heart of Rotterdam, within walking distance of Blaak station and the Markthal. The area is easily accessible by metro, tram and bus, and there are several car parks nearby.
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