Film Lens
Lerchenlieder is a documentary that centers on the friendship between Johann Bartisch, a 72-year-old music machine collector, and Gerd, a 12-year-old farm boy from Arnsgereuth. The film captures Johann's lifelong passion for music machines, which began in his childhood in Romania when he played 'O sole mio' on the piano. His fascination with self-playing instruments grew as he encountered them at fairgrounds, cinemas, and trains.
As an adult, Johann dedicated himself to collecting and restoring these instruments, rescuing them from various locations in Bucharest, including barns and garbage dumps. The documentary presents his meticulous restoration work in his 250-year-old schoolhouse in Arnsgereuth, highlighting the bond formed between him and Gerd as they share a love for music and craftsmanship.
Why Watch
- •Meet Johann Bartisch, a passionate music machine collector.
- •Find out how Johann restores self-playing instruments.
- •See the friendship between Johann and young Gerd unfold.
Did You Know
•Johann Bartisch is 72 years old and lives in Arnsgereuth.
•Gerd, the farm boy, is only 12 years old.
•Johann began collecting music machines in Bucharest.
•The schoolhouse where Johann restores instruments is 250 years old.
Perfect For
Music machine enthusiastsDocumentary fansFriendship stories