The Great Organ, pipe organ in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, France
The Great Organ stands in the tribune at the back of the nave of Saint-Sulpice, in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. Its Louis XVI case, designed by Jean-François Chalgrin with figures by Clodion, rises in five pipe sections against pale stone, with a round white clock face set in the centre and carved figures on the ledges. The console sits in front of the case, facing the choir.
François-Henri Clicquot built the organ between 1776 and 1781 behind a Louis XVI case designed by Jean-François Chalgrin, with sculptures by Clodion and Duret. Aristide Cavaillé-Coll rebuilt it between 1857 and 1862, reusing Clicquot's pipework to create his largest instrument. Jean Renaud restored it between 1989 and 1991.
The organ represents Paris's long tradition of church music and has connected people here for centuries through sound. Today visitors and worshippers gather for concerts to experience this music live.
The church offers free concerts on Sundays and is easily accessible during these times. Visitors should arrive early since seating can be limited and space fills quickly.
Renowned organists including Charles Widor and Marcel Dupré composed and performed on this instrument, and their works remain celebrated today. The organ's sound becomes especially powerful during festive occasions like Easter and Christmas when the music fills the entire space.
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