La Casa Elèctrica: Music in the Air

Thinking of home music most people probably picture a guitar or a flute rather than a full-blown organ. But the wealthy Mallorcan Josep Balaguer spruced up his noble mansion with just that. And until today, visitors marvel at the ancient instrument for one more reason. The organ displayed in Palma was one of the first electric instruments. Designed and manufactured at the famous Walcker company in Ludwigsburg. The German organ builder equipped not only Can Balaguer but churches and synagogues around the world, not least St. Peter‘s in Rome. La Casa Elèctrica, the title of the exhibition, refers to a Buster Keaton movie and underlines the innovative character of the instrument.

The show is dedicated to the organ but it also displays documents illustrating the genesis of the exceptional project. Like the letter from E.F. Walcker & Cie. to Josep Balaguer dated 25 January 1930. But above all it is the organ itself that attracts the interest of music lovers, teckies and history buffs. Not to forget about the interior design and the architecture of the city palace.

Today, Can Balaguer is a museum. While the spectacular patio and the authentically decorated upper floor convey an impression of the life of the upper class in former centuries, the ground floor and gallery host changing exhibitions.

Many passers-by neither recognize the signature door knockers nor dare they enter the magnificent building. But admission is free and you will be surprised by the tranquility right at the heart of Palma‘s shopping district.

The current exhibition La Casa Elèctrica runs until 28 January 2024 and includes the display of material related to the subject. The organ on the impressive planta noble is part of the permanent collection. Strolling through the rooms of the extraordinary Can Balaguer the history of Mallorca comes to life.