1. How does it feel to be the Number One organ builder in Germany?

It's wonderful! Becoming champion in a handcraft field which is traditionally dominated by men is a big joy.

2. How does the competition work?

To qualify for entry, you have to perform very well in the end-of-Apprenticeship exams. For this consideration, the quality of the work is just as important as getting a good average mark. At a national level, the competition requires that you make something within a time-limit, according to a given plan. This year, the challenge was to make a metal organ pipe, together with a mounting plate, then test it and voice it.

3. Which new possibilities are opened up to you now that you are champion?

The winners of the competition are eligible for sponsorship. This sponsorship comes in the form of financial support, and enables the recipient to enhance their knowledge, for example, by taking a Masters course, or attending research seminars

4. In what ways will you be using your sponsorship?

I've already used part of the sponsorship by participating in a seminar on organ and church acoustics. The seminar was hosted by the Fraunhofer Institut f�physik (IBP) in Stuttgart. It covered the mechanics of making a technical survey of organ pipes and the sound production of the organ, in conjunction with the acoustics of the room.

5. What training would you recommend for someone who would like to participate in this sort of competition?

It's important to build up strong practical skills and also focus on developing good time management. Good tools, and spending time reviewing the test contents from previous years, can also be very helpful.

6. What do you do in your free-time?

My main commitment is to church youth-work. Here in Halberstadt, we have an active youth group. In the leadership team, we plan leisure activities, youth group sessions, and church services, then accomplish these together with the young people. Besides this, I like hiking, love travelling, and sing in a choir.