Few crafts manage to be as technically precise, musical, and emotional as organ building. As part of the “Industriespionage Glarnerland” project, I had the opportunity to take a look behind the scenes at Mathis Orgelbau AG, and that is exactly what made this visit so fascinating.

Viewed from the outside, one is naturally aware that an enormous amount of work goes into an organ. But it is only during a tour of the workshop that one truly understands how complex this craft actually is. Hundreds of tiny parts are still crafted, adjusted, and assembled by hand today—with a precision, patience, and calm that are rarely seen in today’s fast-paced world.

It was particularly fascinating to see how many different trades come together here. Woodworking, metalworking, and the finest leatherwork intertwine to create an instrument that goes far beyond mere function. It is precisely this combination of different crafts that makes places like this so inspiring to me.

During the tour, I had the opportunity to capture some visual impressions and convey a bit of the workshop’s atmosphere. Amid workbenches, materials, tools, and the countless small steps involved in the process, I took snapshots that make the character of this place particularly tangible to me.

At the same time, I find it incredibly valuable that projects like “Industriespionage Glarnerland” are even being launched. Initiatives like these not only foster a new appreciation for regional businesses and craftsmanship, but also allow people to become more aware of their own region and build a deeper connection to their hometown.

A big thank you to Mathis Orgelbau AG for the detailed and fascinating tour, as well as the candid insights into this impressive craft.

- Anuschka

Mathis orgelbau ag