The XXXI International Festival of Organ Music at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Warsaw promises to be an extraordinary showcase of the cathedral’s renowned 4,301-pipe organ. Renowned organists from across Europe will take the stage, treating attendees to one-hour performances that highlight the instrument’s impressive orchestral sound quality. With accessible ticket prices and a convenient cancellation policy, the festival ensures an enriching experience for all. However, the true allure may lie in the cathedral’s stunning Gothic architecture, which will undoubtedly complement the captivating music. Those seeking to enjoy the magnificent fusion of sound and space won’t want to miss this compelling festival.
Key Points
• The XXXI International Festival of Organ Music is an annual festival held at the St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Warsaw, featuring renowned organists from Europe.
• The festival showcases the cathedral’s 4,301-pipe concert organ, providing an unforgettable orchestral musical experience for attendees.
• Ticket prices start at $15.01, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for attendees.
• The historic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts impressive Gothic architecture and is fully wheelchair accessible.
• The festival features a diverse lineup of organists from Italy, Spain, Slovakia, and Poland, offering a range of musical styles and performances.
You can check if your dates are available here:Event Overview
Annually, the XXXI International Festival of Organ Music takes place at the prestigious St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Warsaw, Poland, running from July 7 to September 22, 2024.
Audiences can expect approximately one-hour concert performances by renowned organists from around the world, including Italy, Spain, Slovakia, and Poland.
Tickets range from $15.01 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The historic cathedral, dating back to the 14th century, is wheelchair accessible, ensuring accessibility for all attendees.
With an impressive 4,301-pipe concert organ, the festival promises an unforgettable musical experience for organ enthusiasts.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Warsaw.
Performer Lineup
The XXXI International Festival of Organ Music boasts a remarkable lineup of renowned organists from across Europe, including virtuosos from Italy, Spain, Slovakia, and Poland.
This year’s program features the talented Italian organist Giampaolo Di Rosa kicking off the festivities on July 7th.
On July 14th, audiences will be captivated by the Spanish virtuoso Jesus Sampedro Márquez, followed by Stanislav Surin from Slovakia on July 21st.
The Italian organist Giovanna Tricarico takes the stage on July 28th, with fellow Italians Silvio Celeghin and Francesco Bongiorno performing on August 4th and August 25th, respectively.
Poland’s own Przemysław Kapituła and Piotr Rachoń will showcase their skills on August 11th and 18th, while Józef Kotowicz, Giulia Biagetti, and Toni Pussinen from Finland round out the impressive lineup.
Organ Specifications
At the heart of the XXXI International Festival of Organ Music lies the impressive concert organ installed in 1987, with its towering 4,301 pipes and three keyboards for the hands and one for the feet.
This grand instrument boasts an array of impressive specifications:
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The largest pipe weighs approximately 100 kg, showcasing the sheer scale of the organ.
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The sound quality is described as orchestral, fruity, and individual, captivating audiences with its rich and diverse tones.
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The three manuals for the hands and one for the feet provide the organist with exceptional control and versatility.
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The organ’s power and presence make it a fitting centerpiece for the prestigious festival, establishing the Warsaw Cathedral as a premier destination for organ music enthusiasts.
Venue Significance
As a vital site of Poland’s national culture, dating back to the 14th century, the Warsaw Cathedral provides a prestigious and historic backdrop for the XXXI International Festival of Organ Music. Recognized for its unique architecture and significant role in Polish history, the cathedral is a premier location for organ music performances. The cathedral’s historical significance is further underscored by its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its cultural and architectural importance.
Architectural Features | Historical Significance | Cultural Importance |
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Ornate Gothic-style design | Constructed in the 14th century | Iconic symbol of Polish identity |
Impressive interior with high ceilings | Served as a coronation site for Polish monarchs | Hub for national cultural events |
Large stained-glass windows | Survived numerous wars and invasions | Attracts visitors from around the world |
Accessibility and Tickets
Ticket prices for the XXXI International Festival of Organ Music range from $15.01 per person, making the event accessible to a wide audience.
Attendees can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in their plans. The venue itself is wheelchair accessible, ensuring equal access for all concertgoers.
The festival offers several accessibility features:
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Ample wheelchair-friendly seating and aisles throughout the cathedral.
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Designated areas for attendees with hearing or visual impairments.
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Availability of assistive listening devices upon request.
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Designated entry and exit points for easy navigation.
These accommodations demonstrate the organizers’ commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming experience for all music enthusiasts.
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Cancellation Policy
The XXXI International Festival of Organ Music offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing attendees to receive a full refund if they cancel their tickets up to 24 hours before the concert.
This policy ensures that concertgoers can plan their schedules with confidence, knowing they won’t be penalized for unexpected changes.
Whether it’s a work commitment, a family emergency, or simply a change of plans, this generous cancellation policy provides peace of mind for all ticket holders.
The festival’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in this flexible approach, making it easy for music enthusiasts to enjoy the world-class organ performances without worrying about non-refundable tickets.
Customer Feedback
Concertgoers have overwhelmingly praised the XXXI International Festival of Organ Music, awarding it an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 4 insightful reviews. The festival’s world-class organists, magnificent cathedral venue, and captivating performances have enchanted audiences.
While the feedback is largely positive, reviewers offered a few constructive suggestions:
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Provide bilingual programs to accommodate international attendees
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Incorporate more multilingual announcements during the concerts
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Expand concert schedules to include more performances
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Enhance marketing to raise awareness of this exceptional organ music festival
Event Schedule
Renowned organists regularly grace the stage at the XXXI International Festival of Organ Music, captivating audiences with their virtuosic performances across the 12-week event. The lineup features a diverse array of acclaimed musicians from across Europe, delighting attendees with their interpretations of classic and contemporary works.
Date | Performer | Origin |
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July 7 | Giampaolo Di Rosa | Italy |
July 14 | Jesus Sampedro Márquez | Spain |
July 21 | Stanislav Surin | Slovakia |
July 28 | Giovanna Tricarico | Italy |
This prestigious festival showcases the cathedral’s magnificent organ, with its 4,301 pipes and orchestral sound, providing an unforgettable musical experience for all who attend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Organ to the Concert?
No, attendees are not permitted to bring their own organs to the concert. The event is focused on showcasing the cathedral’s large concert organ, and outside instruments are not allowed during the performances.
Do the Organists Perform Any Encores?
The organists often perform encores at the end of their recitals, delighting the audience with additional pieces that showcase the full range and power of the cathedral’s magnificent organ. Encores are a common practice and much-anticipated part of the concert experience.
Is Photography Allowed During the Performances?
Photography is generally allowed during the organ music performances, though attendees are asked to avoid using flash or making loud noises that could distract the artists and other concertgoers. Discreet photography is typically permitted.
Are There Any Food or Drink Options Available On-Site?
There are limited food and drink options available on-site at the cathedral. Guests can purchase bottled water and light snacks from a small concession stand in the lobby during intermission. Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the cathedral.
Can I Request a Specific Piece to Be Played?
Visitors can’t request specific pieces to be played during the organ concerts. The festival features pre-scheduled performances by renowned organists, so the program is set in advance. However, the concerts offer a diverse repertoire for attendees to enjoy.
Recap
The XXXI International Festival of Organ Music at the St. John the Baptist Cathedral in Warsaw promises an unforgettable experience for music lovers.
Featuring renowned organists from across Europe, the festival showcases the cathedral’s magnificent 4,301-pipe organ and its stunning Gothic architecture.
With affordable ticket prices and a flexible cancellation policy, the festival ensures accessibility and convenience for all attendees.
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