You might study, have lunch, attend a Studium Generale lecture, or simply pass through the Auditorium now and then. But here’s the million-dollar question: have you ever noticed the enormous organ hiding in plain sight?
For the TU/e Lustrum, it's time to stop walking past this hidden gem and actually hear it. Organist Jan Verschuren will perform a short lunchtime concert on the Auditorium organ, a remarkable instrument that has been part of the university since 1966.
The idea of having an organ in this building came from Rector Magnificus Posthumus after the TU/e had received a donation of one million guilders (about 450,000 Euros) from Eindhoven’s electronics company Philips. The instrument was designed to bring organ music from all periods to life.
Expect a festive musical journey, from Bach's lively Baroque sounds to grand British fanfares. Whether you're an organ enthusiast or simply curious, this is your chance to experience one of TU/e's best-kept secrets.
The program
- Concerto I, BWV 592 (first movement) – Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750)
A lively, festive opening based on an Italian-style violin concerto by Prince Johann Ernst of Saxe-Weimar. - Festival Toccata – Percy Eastman Fletcher (1879–1932)
A dazzling piece full of energy, with a calmer middle section before the powerful opening theme returns. - Spitfire Prelude – William Walton (1902–1983)
Originally composed for the 1942 film The First of the Few, this stirring, patriotic piece celebrates the story behind the iconic Spitfire aircraft. - Festal Fanfare and Processional – Andrew Carter (1939–2026)
An exuberant, celebratory finale, originally written for the rededication of an organ in Bridlington Priory Church in 2006.
About the organist
Jan Verschuren has a special connection to TU/e: he studied engineering here while developing his passion for the organ. He went on to study at conservatoires in Leuven and Utrecht and has been TU/e's organist since 2006. He is also organist at several historic churches in Leiden, as well as University Organist of Leiden University.
No reservation needed. Just drop by during your lunch break, and enjoy the music.
This concert is part of TU/e’s Lustrum week.
TU/e celebrates 70 years of curiosity.
This year, TU/e celebrates its 70th anniversary with a week full of events that reflect what has always brought the university forward: curiosity. For seven decades, TU/e has connected students, researchers, staff and partners through a shared drive to ask questions, explore new ideas and shape the future together. During the lustrum week, we celebrate this spirit of curiosity and collaboration, with activities that inspire, connect and invite everyone to join the conversation.