6,500 NOTES FOR THE CATHEDRAL FUNDRAISING FOR THE RESTORATION OF THE MONUMENTAL ORGANS
A masterpiece since 1441
The monumental organs have been at the heart of the Cathedral’s intense and long-standing musical tradition over the centuries. The first record of the organ at Como Cathedral dates back to 1441. The original instrument has been expanded over time to its current configuration of five organ sections, representing absolute musical excellence with over 6,500 pipes, ranking among the most important in Lombardy. Housed in sumptuous 17th-century cases, these organs create a unique symphonic sound, enhancing the liturgical function as an integral and essential part of the celebration, aimed at the glorification of God and the edification of the faithful. But in Como Cathedral, music also serves as a means of bringing the entire community together.
The Cathedral’s ancient musical tradition
In the Cathedral, music takes centre stage every Sunday during Holy Mass, but also through numerous initiatives.
The Musical Chapel. The historic Musical Chapel of Como Cathedral was founded in 1635. It is responsible for the musical programme at the Cathedral, both for liturgical and cultural events. It comprises a polyphonic choir and a children’s choir, and is supported by a group of assistant organists and a group of leaders for the congregation’s singing at Sunday services. The Musical Chapel is currently directed by the Chapel Master, Don Nicholas Negrini, assisted by the Music Master, Lorenzo Pestuggia, who also serves as principal organist and archivist. The polyphonic choir takes part in the main celebrations of the liturgical year, particularly those presided over by the Bishop.
The Music Archive. The Musical Chapel manages the Cathedral’s important music archive, containing manuscripts dating from the 16th century and printed scores. These works were mainly composed by the Chapel Masters, including Francesco Spagnoli Rusca, Pasquale Ricci, Marco Enrico Bossi, Luigi Picchi and Felice Rainoldi.
The Children’s Choir. The Cathedral is also active in introducing children to music through the Como Cathedral Children’s Choir. It was founded in 2016, at the behest of the then Bishop, Monsignor Diego Coletti, thanks to the collaboration between the Cathedral Chapter and the ‘Giuditta Pasta’ Music Academy of Como. The choir is conducted by Maestro Antonello Rizzitella.
The music festivals organised by the Cathedral Chapter: Memoria Cathedralis and Firmamento Musicale.
Memoria Cathedralis takes place to mark the Dedication of the Cathedral, celebrated on 13 May in commemoration of the consecration of the first Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore in 1083. The festival runs throughout the month of May and features a distinguished line-up of scholars and industry professionals who take turns addressing and presenting high-quality historical, artistic and musical themes, drawing information, inspiration, knowledge and surprises from the Cathedral’s treasure trove. Firmamento Musicale is a festival devoted primarily to organ music, held during the novena of Our Lady of the Assumption (15 August), patron saint of the Cathedral. The event is very popular with the faithful, local residents and tourists alike.
A gift today, harmony for ever!
To ensure that music, with its liturgical, cultural and historical significance, remains at the heart of life at Como Cathedral, it is essential to begin restoration work. The Cathedral intends to involve the whole community in this endeavour: the Cathedral belongs to everyone, because it welcomes everyone. This renews the tradition of generosity which, over time, has sustained and nurtured this great work, making it a source of pride for the entire city and the region. Everyone can make a contribution, whether large or small, to help us achieve a concrete goal together. To this end, a fundraising campaign has been launched through the Fondazione della Comunità Comasca, which guarantees transparency, security and tax deductibility for every donation made via the portal.Partecipa anche tu: aiuta a mantenere viva la tradizione musicale del Duomo di Como!
