The organs of Paris
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Introduction

Paris houses currently about 280 organs. They are mainly located in churches, temples, conservatories and concert halls. Although there are very few organs preserved dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, many elements dating from these centuries have been reused in the following centuries. In the 18th century, the rise and importance of the capital allowed the great parishes to acquire exceptional organs. The French Revolution put a stop to the Parisian organ building, which continued during the 19th century until the arrival of Aristide Cavaillé-Coll. Since then, the presence of this famous organ builder made it possible to equip the capital with a multitude of high-quality instruments. This momentum is continued throughout the 20th century. And even now, regularly new organs are added to the fascinating and diverse organ landscape of Paris until nowadays.
Currently the city of Paris owns 126 of the approx. 280 organs in Paris, among which 42 choir organs. Many of which are classified as Historic Monuments. However, despite the effort made to preserve as much as possible this heritage, the municipality has only a very limited yearly budget for maintenance and restoration works. A plan for the maintenance of this great cultural heritage has been made but the execution of it is hindered by financial constraints. Read more about the French system of organ restorations and maintenance.
Organs of Paris

Introduction

Paris houses currently about 280 organs. They are mainly located in churches, temples, conservatories and concert halls. Although there are very few organs preserved dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, many elements dating from these centuries have been reused in the following centuries. In the 18th century, the rise and importance of the capital allowed the great parishes to acquire exceptional organs. The French Revolution put a stop to the Parisian organ building, which continued during the 19th century until the arrival of Aristide Cavaillé-Coll. Since then, the presence of this famous organ builder made it possible to equip the capital with a multitude of high-quality instruments. This momentum is continued throughout the 20th century. And even now, regularly new organs are added to the fascinating and diverse organ landscape of Paris until nowadays.
ORGANS OF PARIS © 2024 Vincent Hildebrandt ALL ORGANS