Kristiaan Van Ingelgem (Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde, 9 June 1944 - Aalst, 15 February 2024) was a Belgian organist and composer. His musical journey began with his first organ lessons from his father, Frans-Jan, who was himself an organist and choir director in Opwijk. Kristiaan continued his studies at the Muziekacademie van Dendermonde from 1954 to 1958. Later he studied at the Lemmensinstituut in Leuven, where he became a laureate in 1967 for organ and pedagogy, followed by the Prijs Lemmens-Tinel in 1969. His teacher was Kamiel D'Hooghe. He also obtained a soloist diploma in 1972 for organ and improvisation at the Conservatorium Maastricht.
From 1970 onwards, he began teaching at various music institutions, including the Koninklijke Beiaardschool in Mechelen, the Rijksmuziekacademie in Etterbeek, the Kunsthumaniora Brussel and the Muziekacademie in Aalst. He was organist of the Sint-Martinuskerk in Aalst and organized annual organ concerts there. Furthermore, he was affiliated with the Koninklijk Conservatorium Brussel, and later also with Antwerpen.
Although primarily known for his improvisational talent, he also left behind a number of compositions. For organ, he composed a Toccata, a Sonate, a Passacaglia and Fuga, as well as a Fuga based on a twelve-tone theme. Additionally, he was also active in chamber music, with works such as a Fantasie for oboe, cello and piano, and a Sonate for violin and piano. His repertoire also includes choral works, including a Missa brevis and a Te Deum. Works for carillon and piano are also part of his oeuvre. Further among his works are the Sprookje on the name Fabiola, a required piece during a carillon competition in Mechelen in 1998, and Kapellekensbaan for chamber orchestra, inspired by the novel of the same name by Louis Paul Boon.
With the passing of Kristiaan Van Ingelgem, the musical world loses one of its most inspiring figures. His music, which bears witness to a deep humanity and a rich musical imagination, will continue to resonate with future generations. Klassiek Centraal shares this loss with the world and remembers Kristiaan Van Ingelgem not only as an exceptional talent but also as a mentor and inspiration to many. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those touched by his music.