“Verein der Werschetzer Orgelfreunde” is a civic organization of people who are conscious of rich historical and cultural traditions of the town of Vršac (Vojvodina, Serbia), as well as its cultural values and significance. Our primary goal is public advocacy for preservation, restoration and renovation of the pipe organ of St. Gerhard church, as a great cultural heritage of all citizens of Vršac.
What is different in our story, compared to the others?
In countries with developed pipe organ tradition, it is not unusual to have a group of people taking care about a specific instrument. But, not in Serbia, where the cultural heritage protection is highly institutionalized. So, the main difference is that a non-government organization stands behind all the initiatives and questions that have been raised about it in Serbian public recently, but not the owner (the Roman-Catholic Church). In addition, civic approach is quite controversial in Serbia, and looks almost like an off-road drive over an unfamiliar terrain. So far, we are all alone, as our country is far from being in the heart of the pipe organ world.
We are not burdened with national, political or religious issues and problems. We simply love our town and care about it.
In attempt to achieve our aims, we organize concerts, lectures and the other public events, publish music and scores, educate young people, raise funds… In a word, we are trying to help both the State and the Owner to fulfill their obligations, keeping in mind that the benefit of our fellow citizens – cultural development in a multicultural and multiconfessional environment – stands as our true raison d’être.
If you want to share your experience and knowledge with us, to support our efforts, or just to say “hello”, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Verein der Werschetzer Orgelfreunde 