The instrument

The Saint-Maximin organ along with the one in the Cathedral of Poitiers are the two best and most beautiful realizations, identical to their original condition, of what is referred to as the « French organ». French and foreign organists, all dream of one day playing on this « Stradivarius » of organs.

This double organ-case instrument, was built and completed in 1773 by Brother Jean-Esprit Isnard, of the Tarascon monastery, one of the most skilled organ makers of his time. Besides its bellow, it has kept all of its original pipes. For a total of 43 organ stops, one can count 2 960 pipes. The longest measures 5 m 28 by 30 cm in diameter, the smallest 18 mm by 11.

It was placed on a specially constructed organ loft. The pipes are framed within

five turrets topped by domes which serve as a base for remarkable sculptures, two of which measure more than two meters : King David and Saint Cecilia.

It was declared an « historical monument » in 1953. The last restoration was performed from 1988 to 1991 by the organ-builder Cabourdin.

Mr. Pierre Bardon is titular organist of the great, historical organ since 1961.In November 2008, his nephew, Mr. Philippe Bardon, titular organist at the Pontoise Cathedral, was named co-titular organist.

Concerts

Every year, from May to October, at 5 PM, on the first Sunday of the month, the Municipal Office of Culture invites world famous organists to give free concerts. The Saint-Maximin Music Festival, held in each year in August, also begins with an organ concert. Voluntary donations from the audience are entirely set aside for organ maintenance and repair.

The program is made known at the beginning of the year.

During the remaining Sundays of the month throughout this same period, free concerts are given by Mr. Pierre Bardon. On 23 October 2011, during the course of a reception organized by the Saint-Maximin municipality, On the occasion of his 50th Jubilee as Titular Organist of the Isnard organ Mr. Bardon was elevated to Knighthood in the Pontifical Order of Saint Gregory the Great, awarded by Pope Benedict XVI.  

The Organ Academy

In 2008, the Association organized an Organ Academy, directed by Mr. Philippe Bardon, Titular Organist at Pontoise Cathedral, northwest of Paris. This academy is attended by numerous amateur and professional organists. It was designed to continue the relay of the academy that assembled the major organists of France from 1964 to 1988 and to make the organ better known worldwide.

In 2011, a new association – The organ of Jean-Esprit Isnard – Saint-Maximin – was formed as a backup of our endeavors.

Registration takes place as early as January. This year, the Academy was held at the end of August.

For additional details concerning dates and admittance to the Academy,
see the site: www.orgue-saintmaximin.com .