Walcha, Helmut

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Walcha, Helmut (b Leipzig, 1907; d Frankfurt am Main, 1991). Ger. organist, blind since age of 16. Ass. org. Thomaskirche, Leipzig, 1926–9. Org., Frankfurt Friedenskirche 1929, teacher of org. Hoch Cons. 1933 (prof. 1938–72), and at State Mus. Sch. 1938–72. Org., Dreikönigskirche from 1946. Famous Bach interpreter, preferring to play on orgs. resembling those of Bach's day. Ed. of Handel org. concs. Comp. 25 chorale preludes for org. Author of book on Reger.