Festival of Sacred Music of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye

Festival of Sacred Music: the organ and the sacred in a Gothic setting

Since 1992, the Festival of Sacred Music of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye has celebrated sacred music in the exceptional setting of the Gothic abbey church of this village listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. Organized by the Association des Amis de l'Orgue de Saint-Antoine, the festival offers a series of high artistic quality concerts each summer.

The Grand Organ: an exceptional instrument

At the heart of the festival is the grand historic organ of the abbey church, magnificently rebuilt by organ builder Bernard Aubertin in 1992. This exceptional instrument, with 4 manuals, a pedalboard, and 44 stops, is one of the most remarkable in the region. It attracts internationally renowned organists each year who come to perform, record, or teach in this unique place.

A Rich and Varied Program

The festival is not limited to the organ alone. The program also includes vocal and instrumental ensembles performing the great works of the sacred music repertoire: Baroque music, choral music, requiems, cantatas, and oratorios. The concerts take place in the exceptional acoustics of the abbey church, offering a unique musical and spiritual experience.

Summer Academy

The festival is accompanied by a Summer Academy, offering a full week of immersion in Baroque music with group and individual lessons, ensemble music, and workshops. This academy attracts musicians and students from around the world, contributing to the festival's international renown.

Exceptional Heritage

The abbey church of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye is a jewel of Gothic art in Dauphiné. Founded in the 13th century by the Antonines, it preserves a rich artistic and architectural heritage. The medieval village surrounding it, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France since 2010, adds to the charm of the event and offers festival-goers a unique setting to discover sacred music.

With over thirty editions to its name, the Festival of Sacred Music has established itself as a major summer event for lovers of classical music and heritage in Isère.