Johannus Sampleset Raalte for Live III  

Raalte lies in the heart of Salland (Netherlands), and in the heart of Raalte is the Basiliek van de Heilige Kruisverheffing (Basilica of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross). This Gothic Revival church, built in 1891 and 1892, is also known as ‘Salland Cathedral’. The church is home to a great musical treasure – the three-manual Joseph Adema organ.

The instrument is the second largest built by Adema, and features 43 stops. In 2008, it was acquired from the catholic Sint-Michaëlskerk in Zwolle, where it had served for many decades. Since then in Raalte, the majestic organ with its many string stops has been played in concerts, and has also been used as an accompanying instrument for (weekday) celebrations.

The French-Symphonic sound of this organ has moved many to tears, including the sexton at Raalte who could not hide his emotions upon hearing it for the first time. He was not the first to be so moved, and won’t be the last. Many an organist, seated at the manuals of the Adema organ, has marveled at the mystical, poetic, sometimes intense yet subtle sounds produced by the instrument.

Music by French composers such as Franck, Saint-Saëns, Guilmant, Widor and Vierne meet their destiny in Raalte.With a six-second reverb, this Adema organ couldn’t have found a better home than in the Basiliek van de Heilige Kruisverheffing.

Many concert organists find their way to the heart of Salland... and are able to profoundly touch the musical hearts of their audiences.