The St. Nicolai Church in Gifhorn is home to a historic organ built by the Hanoverian court organ builder Christian Vater in 1748. Despite initial difficulties during its construction, which led to significant repairs just 12 years later, the organ has a long and storied history. Over time, the instrument has undergone various modifications, particularly in the late 19th century when original registers were altered to suit modern tastes. However, multiple attempts to replace the organ or significantly change its tuning were ultimately halted due to financial constraints.

In 1935, the organ was restored by Furtwängler & Hammer during the "Organ Reform Movement," which aimed to revive Baroque principles in organ building, though this approach is now viewed as misguided. A significant restoration took place in 1961 by the Dutch firm Flentrop, which involved relocating the organ to a lower gallery and repainting its case to match the church's altar. The most recent restoration, completed in 2000 by the Gebr. Hillebrand company, focused on returning the organ to its historical state, with special attention to the paintwork by Ochsenfarth. The organ, known for its rich and varied sound, remains a central feature of the church's musical life and is featured in recordings and concerts, particularly during the church's organ summer events.

Additionals: II/I (shove-coupler), Tremulant, Cimbelglocken

https://nomine.net/orgel/gifhorn-st-nicolai/