The International Symposium «The Organ in the 21st Century»
On the first anniversary of the opening of the Robin Langley Organ Library, March 21, 2006, the International Symposium «The Organ in the 21st Century» commenced at the Gnesin Russian Academy of Music.
The symposium typically brings together representatives of the global organ elite. Scholars, educators, performers, and organ builders from various countries attend the event to discuss pressing issues in organ building, enjoy performances by renowned Russian and international organists, and explore Moscow’s historic organs.
During the symposium, a concert featuring students from the organ class at the Gnesin Russian Academy of Music is held. The programme includes both chamber works with organ and new compositions by prominent contemporary composers. Often, the concert programme is enriched by contributions from representatives of various faculties of the Academy, who present compositions for organ combined with other instruments and choir.
A key event of the symposium is the International Conference «Gnesin Organ Readings», held in the Small Hall of the Gnesin Russian Academy of Music. At the conference, authoritative researchers, performing organists, and organ builders from various countries present their papers. Proceedings from the «Gnesin Organ Readings» conferences are compiled into the collection «Organ Art». Additionally, the scientific conference is accompanied by a live internet broadcast, enabling interested parties to later participate interactively in the Round Table discussion.
For participants and guests of the International Symposium «The Organ in the 21st Century», a guided tour programme is traditionally organized, offering an opportunity to explore Moscow’s unique collection of historic organs.