Hendrik Niehoff (also Nyhoff, Neuhoff, Nieuwenhoff) (* around 1495; † 1560) was a prominent organ builder active in 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands. In the 16th century, Niehoff brought organ building in North Brabant to its peak, introducing various technical innovations and significantly influencing the development of Northern European organ culture.

Niehoff came from a well-established organ-building family, with his father Nicolaas likely based in Leeuwarden. Hendrik and his brother Herman (* around 1495; † after 1546) both contributed to the family trade. Hendrik trained under Johann von Koblenz and began working independently after his mentor's death in 1532. He later partnered with Hans von Köln, reflecting his growing reputation. Niehoff did not obtain citizenship in 's-Hertogenbosch despite living there for 22 years, indicating his significant itinerant activity.

Niehoff's work is renowned for shaping the "Brabantine organ" style, characterized by a distinctive facade layout reflecting the Werkprinzip. He advanced the use of Springladen (spring chests) and separated the functions of individual registers from the traditional blockwork, paving the way for more versatile organ designs. His organs typically featured a main work, Rückpositiv, and independent pedal, with larger instruments also including an Oberwerk. Niehoff's innovations were influential, providing a model for North German organ building.

During his prolific career, especially from 1538 to 1560, Niehoff built and maintained numerous organs. Notable works include the organ in the Oude Kerk, Amsterdam, where the famous composer Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck later played, and the organ in St. Johannis, Lüneburg. Although few of his original organs survive, Niehoff's contributions left a lasting legacy in the evolution of organ construction and performance in Northern Europe.

https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hendrik_Niehoff