Il progetto “15.800 note per il Duomo” trova un nuovo importante sostenitore nel 2021.
The “15,800 Tones for the Cathedral” project has gained a significant new supporter in 2021.
Between the large naves of Milan Cathedral, where silent prayer and amazement at beauty converge, one can see the silhouette of the Great Organ near the High Altar; its sound has accompanied the passing of the centuries ever since the cathedral’s construction began.
The complexity and variety of materials from which it is made – wood, leather and metal – combined with the degradation factors to which the instrument is subjected on a daily basis inside the Cathedral, such as humidity, dust and natural wear and tear over time, have convinced the Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo to undertake a significant restoration programme, which began in 2019 and will continue to employ the Cathedral’s craftsmen, restorers and specialist technicians for another couple of years, according to the current work plan.
This restoration has been made possible thanks to the constant work of the Veneranda Fabbrica, which continues its commitment to this day, supported by the valuable contributions of donors both big and small, including Zucchetti, a company which has become a supporter of the ‘15,800 Notes for the Duomo’ project this year.
With offices both in Italy and abroad, Zucchetti is a software house specialising in software, hardware and digital services for businesses and professionals; through this specific project, it has found an opportunity to provide significant support for the progress of restoration work on this musical and technological giant. This contribution is particularly important at this difficult time for the Duomo’s restoration site, where work has been slowed down due to the pandemic and its consequences.
With the gradual resumption of work on the organ in May, following a general overhaul, Colzani Organi S.n.c. undertook the dismantling of the pipes from the northern section, many of which were transported to the workshop for repair. At the same time, all the bellows were restored, using over 500 square feet of leather. The real innovation, however, lies primarily in the installation of the new, state-of-the-art computerised organ management system, which will connect the new console (currently in production) to the organ and resolve operational issues caused by the age of the electromechanical components. By the end of the year, in fact, the new five-manual console will arrive at the Duomo and the Great Organ will finally embark on its new ‘digital’ life.
The console was designed in collaboration with the Master Organists of the Cathedral and craftsmen brought in directly from Germany. Zucchetti’s support forms part of this new phase of works, which will see the replacement of analogue connections with fibre-optic signal controls.
Further Information:
Donations Office
Veneranda Fabbrica del Duomo di Milano
Via Carlo Maria Martini, 1 – 20122 Milano
Freephone number: 800.528.477 (Italy only)
[email protected]