Flentrop at 50

Black-and-white architectural drawing showing the front elevation of the Flentrop organ at Duke Chapel. The organ case rises in tiers of façade pipes flanked by ornate carved woodwork in the Dutch Baroque style, set within the pointed Gothic arch separating the narthex and nave. Below the main case, the gallery railing and supporting arches are visible. The drawing shows the organ's symmetric design with a central tower, side flats, and decorative carvings. An 'E' marking in the lower right corner indicates

On Founders Day 1976, the Benjamin N. Duke Memorial Organ sounded for the first time in worship.

Built by Dirk A. Flentrop of The Netherlands, the instrument brought eighteenth-century Dutch, French, and Spanish organ-building traditions to the Gothic arches of Duke Chapel. It was the last organ Flentrop personally oversaw before his retirement. Fifty years later, it remains one of the most recognizable mechanical action organs in the United States. Join us on December 12, 2026, to mark this milestone.

Join us as we mark this Jubilee.

The organ is more than a replica from a glorious past. It is an instrument for contemporary expression.

Dirk Flentrop

Nathan Laube in Recital

We are honored to welcome Nathan Laube as our anniversary recitalist. One of the most sought-after concert organists of his generation, Laube serves as Professor of Organ at the Eastman School of Music and has performed on historic instruments across Europe and North America. His December 12 program on the Flentrop will be the centerpiece of the celebration.

A Weekend of Music, Learning, and Reflection

The celebration will bring together organists, scholars, and friends of the Chapel for a full day of programming, including:

A masterclass for young organists led by Nathan Laube

Nathan Laube will lead a masterclass featuring Duke Chapel Organ Scholars and young organists from the region.

Exhibits and screenings

An open afternoon of exhibits tracing the Flentrop's history alongside a rolling program of short films, including a new micro-documentary marking the anniversary.

A presentation by Chapel Organist Chad Fothergill

Chapel Organist Chad Fothergill will present on the Flentrop's history and the acoustic transformation that made it possible, featuring rare recordings made before the Chapel's acoustics were changed.

Anniversary Recital

Nathan Laube in recital on the Benjamin N. Duke Memorial Organ. Free and open to the public.

Sunday Worship and Evensong

Past Duke Chapel Organ Scholars serve as prelude and postlude performers in the 11:00 AM worship service and return for an extended prelude before 4:00 PM Evensong.

Be the First to Know

Registration opens in fall 2026. Sign up below to receive updates and early access to event information.