In a special series of four concerts, the grand organs of Groningen’s Akerk and Martinikerk will resound with the major organ works of Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy and Robert Schumann. Mendelssohn discovered the music of Johann Sebastian Bach at a young age and was instantly captivated. Throughout his life, he championed Bach’s legacy and allowed Bach’s influence to shape his own compositions—always blending inspiration with his own distinctive voice. His passion for Bach proved contagious, sparking similar admiration in composers like Schumann, Brahms, and Liszt. Unsurprisingly, Bach’s presence will be felt throughout the series as a guiding spirit behind the music.

The concerts also highlight a local connection: in 1852, Groningen-born organist Jan (Johannes) Worp traveled to the newly established Leipzig Conservatory—then a leading center of music in Europe—to immerse himself in the styles of Mendelssohn and Schumann, and to study with top Bach interpreters. As a unique addition to the program, two organ fantasies Worp composed after his time in Leipzig will also be performed. Remarkably, Worp is the only organist in history to have held posts at both the Akerk and the Martinikerk.

The final concert of the series will take place in the Akerk on November 9, with organist Leonore performing music by composers deeply influenced by Bach’s legacy.