The organ and political power in the Byzantine Empire – Some considerations
(abstract)
The organ was the musical instrument that represented and suggested political power in the Byzantine Empire, although this fact may seem quite curious at first sight, the organ being concretely an instrument of imperial power, which was used skilfully and with quantifiable results. The organ is not a proper Byzantine instrument, but it played a leading role in the imperial ceremonial, developing both musically and especially symbolically. It was masterfully used in almost all the ceremonies of the Byzantine Court, its sounds enveloping the exponents of power and suggesting their power. Likewise, the gold or silver organs were also intended to impress and influence the guests, especially the representatives of other political entities, making them more favourable to Byzantine ideas and politics. The organ was essentially a musical instrument that fascinated, influenced and coagulated, but which was also desired and sought after, both musically and especially symbolically.
Cuvinte cheie: orgă, muzică, putere politică, ceremonial, Imperiul Bizantin
Keywords: organ, music, political power, ceremonial, Byzantine Empire