Cuban organist, conductor, and composer Yudania Gómez Heredia recently visited the Royal Palace in Madrid, where she found herself captivated by the organ in the Royal Chapel—a revered piece of Spain's 18th-century musical heritage. She expressed a deep desire to have the chance to play this magnificent instrument.
This visit was highlighted by the official account of Patrimonio Nacional, the institution responsible for the preservation of this valuable artifact.
A Memorable Visit
"We had the honor of hosting Yudania Gómez Heredia at the Royal Palace of Madrid. As a professional organist, conductor, and composer, she currently leads Rosalía’s Lux Tour. We showed her the Royal Chapel organ, and she was thoroughly impressed, providing an impromptu masterclass on the technical features of this 18th-century musical masterpiece," according to the text accompanying the video.
The organ itself was initially crafted by Leonardo Fernández Dávila between 1756 and 1759 and later completed in 1778 by Mallorcan organ builder Jorge Bosch.
Technical Insights from a Maestro
During the visit, Yudania, who heads the Heritage Orchestra and directs Rosalía’s Lux Tour 2026—a tour featuring 42 concerts across 17 countries—shared her expert insights into the organ's technical nuances.
"This is an Iberian organ, quite old. As you can see, it has what we call Spanish trumpets, particularly noted in Germany," she explained to the cameras.
She emphasized the organ’s exceptional range of stops, pointing out that such configurations are uncommon elsewhere: "You don't find these kinds of stops in Germany; they are specific to the Iberian organ."
Moreover, she highlighted the instrument's versatile sound. As the tour concluded, the Cuban conductor couldn’t hide her longing: "I would love to play this organ; it’s very original, unique, and it would be an incredible opportunity for me."
The Question of Access
The lingering question is whether Patrimonio Nacional will grant her that wish.
Access to the organ is highly restricted; it is housed in the upper choir of the Royal Chapel, with its use strictly governed by Patrimonio Nacional, which schedules it for highly selective events like the XIX Organ Cycle 2026.
Until June 2023, the public had never been allowed close enough to the choir to appreciate the instrument up close, highlighting the stringent protection surrounding this heritage piece.
Public Support for Yudania
The publication sparked a flood of comments from followers urging both the institution and Spain's Ministry of Culture to provide the Cuban musician with this opportunity.
"She is one of the greatest authorities worldwide, and when she explains Baroque works, their scales, harmonies, and analysis...there is likely no better candidate on the planet to play that organ. Please, grant her the chance," wrote one follower.
Another comment called for an institutional event: "I hope you give Yudi the opportunity to play the organ, especially at some institutional event with Latin American countries. It would be fantastic."
Born in Santa Clara in 1994, Yudania was personally invited by Rosalía to join the Lux Tour. She has also conducted the Mitteldeutsche Kammerphilharmonie, the Stuttgart State Opera, and the Chineke! Orchestra.
As of now, Patrimonio Nacional has not publicly responded to the requests from its followers, leaving the question unanswered: Will Spain open the doors of its treasured musical gem to this Cuban talent?
Understanding the Significance of the Royal Chapel Organ
What makes the organ in the Royal Chapel of Madrid special?
The organ is a remarkable example of 18th-century Iberian musical craftsmanship, featuring unique stops and Spanish trumpets. It was initially built by Leonardo Fernández Dávila and later completed by Jorge Bosch.
Why is access to the Royal Chapel organ so restricted?
Due to its historical significance and delicate condition, access to the organ is highly controlled by Patrimonio Nacional, permitting its use only during select events to ensure its preservation.