When electrons sing: How the Hammond organ changed the music world

In three workshops, Hammond organ specialist Peter Becker will introduce the technique and playing style of the instrument.

Hammondorgel, um 1940, Kat.-Nr. 5786 – Hammondorgel, um 1940, Kat.-Nr. 5786

Peter Becker has been researching the electromechanical Hammond organ for over 30 years, the sound of which has been an integral part of jazz, blues, rock, pop, gospel and worship music since the 1950s at the latest. Today, he is one of the few experts in the world who can restore, repair and adjust the sound of organs true to the original and is committed to preserving their unmistakable sound, including in keyboards and clones.

On International Museum Day, he will be holding three workshops to introduce visitors to the technology and playing style of the Hammond organ. Everyone who is enthusiastic about the sound of the instrument is invited. No previous knowledge is required.

Workshops

12 noon: Rotating cogwheels and ingenious ideas

Laurence Hammond was not a musician himself. How did the pioneering invention of this electromechanical organ come about? And how does it work and what part do the Leslie loudspeakers play? The entertaining insight into the history and function includes anecdotes about encounters with famous organists as well as electro-acoustic basics.

1 p.m.: A new sound conquers the music world

Originally intended as a practical replacement for the church organ, jazz and rock musicians fell in love with the new sound. From the 1960s onwards, players such as Jon Lord (Deep Purple), Keith Emerson, Jimmy Smith, Billy Preston and Brian Auger introduced the unmistakable sound to rock, jazz and blues music using models. Peter Becker will play some examples live and explain the background and connections.

2 p.m.: Play it Again - listen and join in

Now is the time to try out simple techniques. Under expert guidance, visitors can lend a hand themselves. No previous musical or instrumental knowledge is required.Translated with DeepL

Price info: Children and young people up to the age of 18 have free admission.

Price: €10.00

Reduced price: €5.00

Booking: Registration: 030.254 81 178 or

Next date:

• Date Sunday, 17/May/2026 12:00 bis 15:00
• Venue Musikinstrumentenmuseum - Ben-Gurion-Straße
• Address Ben-Gurion-Straße, 10785 Berlin-Tiergarten