Mission & Vision
The aim of Association pour le rayonnement des orgues Aristide Cavaillé-Coll de l’église Saint-Sulpice à Paris (AROSS) is to promote the Saint-Sulpice organs through concerts, masterclasses, publications, and educational initiatives for children. Rebuilt in the 19th century by French organ builder Aristide Cavaillé-Coll, the Saint-Sulpice choir organ and great organ are prized for their exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and distinctive tonal qualities, making them some of the most sought-after and revered instruments in the world of organ building.
The Saint-Sulpice great organ, (5 manual keyboards, 102 stops, ca. 7 000 pipes) the largest of the Cavaillé-Coll organs, is widely regarded as his magnum opus. However, preserving and promoting these beautiful instruments is essential, which is why AROSS is committed to ensuring that the rich tones of the magnificent Saint-Sulpice organs continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.
Actions Led
AROSS hosts a vibrant concert series, featuring performances that showcase the versatility and beauty of the Saint-Sulpice organs, attracting visitors from all over the world. From choir and organ concerts to solo instrumental performances, each event offers a unique musical experience in the historic setting of Saint-Sulpice Church. The organs can be regularly heard during Offices and weekly Sunday auditions provided by the Saint-Sulpice organists. Each year, AROSS organizes 5 special concerts with external organists, instrumentalists, and choirs. The concerts are displayed on large screens, allowing audiences a closer glimpse of the music being played.
The organization is dedicated to making its concerts accessible to a global audience. Through innovative live-streaming technology, performances are broadcasted online, allowing music enthusiasts from around the world to experience the magic of Saint-Sulpice from the comfort of their homes. AROSS takes pride in being the first French organ association to have offered live online broadcasts of its concerts, extending the reach and impact of its cultural programming beyond the confines of the church walls.
Projects that U.S. Donors can Support
With increased funding, AROSS can expand its concert offerings to include professional foreign choirs and orchestras, enhancing the cultural experience at Saint-Sulpice. Donors to Friends of Fondation de France help AROSS continue to plan new, exciting concerts to help more audiences experience the larger-than-life music of the Saint-Sulpice organs. To access livestream concerts at Saint-Sulpice and learn more about upcoming concert dates, please consult the organization’s YouTube channel here.
Learn More:
To learn more about AROSS and the organs of Saint-Sulpice, read our article published on September 27th, 2024 here.
Read a review of the recent recital by Saint-Sulpice’s titular organist emeritus, Daniel Roth, on the St. Cecilia Organ in Cape Cod here.
Discover the review of Saint-Sulpice’s current titular organist Karol Mossakowski’s recent New York debut at The Brick Presbyterian Church in Manhattan here.
