Georges Cramer served as the organist of Saint-François in Lausanne from 1947 to 1974 and was an unforgettable professor at the city's Conservatory. His exceptional teaching preserved the traditions of French and German schools, passed down from his mentors William Montillet, Emile Blanchet, and Otto Barblan. This competition, founded in 2001 by Canon Georges Athanasiades, is part of the World Federation of International Music Competitions (FMCIM).
Under the auspices of the Georges Cramer Foundation and with its support, the Abbey of Saint-Maurice is organizing the 12th International Organ Competition of Saint-Maurice. .
Under the auspices of the Georges Cramer Foundation and with its support, the Abbey of Saint-Maurice is organizing the 12th International Organ Competition of Saint-Maurice. .
+ GEORGES CRAMER (1909–1981)
In memory of the eminent organist Georges Cramer
History
The Great Organ
The Grand Organ of the Abbey of Saint-Maurice is a rare and indispensable instrument.
Built in 1950 by Kuhn Organ Builders SA, thanks to an extraordinary sponsorship by Madame Céline Bugnion-Lagouarde, this 72-stop symphonic and neoclassical concert organ was designed by Georges Cramer.
Canon Georges Athanasiades (1929–2022) served as its organist for 70 years. Since 2019, Thomas Kientz has taken over, entrusted with designing the 21st-century organ and overseeing its restoration.
Funded through the "New Resonances" campaign, the significant restoration and expansion of the organ began in 2023, undertaken by Kuhn SA. The Grand Organ now spans the entire basilica. Its 93 stops are housed in a gallery console, complemented by a 14-stop choir organ.
A mobile five-keyboard console enhances the concert experience, providing spatial sound richness and a stereo effect while supporting liturgical singing.
This restoration positions the Grand Organ as both a living testimony to a rich musical tradition and a beacon for the future of organ music. Alongside its evolution, the creation of an organ school ensures the transmission of expertise to the next generation. Furthermore, the establishment of an international music festival will celebrate this exceptional instrument, broaden its audience, and solidify its importance in contemporary music.
Built in 1950 by Kuhn Organ Builders SA, thanks to an extraordinary sponsorship by Madame Céline Bugnion-Lagouarde, this 72-stop symphonic and neoclassical concert organ was designed by Georges Cramer.
Canon Georges Athanasiades (1929–2022) served as its organist for 70 years. Since 2019, Thomas Kientz has taken over, entrusted with designing the 21st-century organ and overseeing its restoration.
Funded through the "New Resonances" campaign, the significant restoration and expansion of the organ began in 2023, undertaken by Kuhn SA. The Grand Organ now spans the entire basilica. Its 93 stops are housed in a gallery console, complemented by a 14-stop choir organ.
A mobile five-keyboard console enhances the concert experience, providing spatial sound richness and a stereo effect while supporting liturgical singing.
This restoration positions the Grand Organ as both a living testimony to a rich musical tradition and a beacon for the future of organ music. Alongside its evolution, the creation of an organ school ensures the transmission of expertise to the next generation. Furthermore, the establishment of an international music festival will celebrate this exceptional instrument, broaden its audience, and solidify its importance in contemporary music.
Laureates 2023
- Tom RioultFRANCE1st Prize
Congratulations to Tom Rioult for his captivating performance, which truly touched our souls.
His mastery of the organ created an enchanting musical experience, leaving an indelible mark on our memories. - Anna SpirinaRussia2nd Prize & Audience Award
Congratulations to Anna Spirina for an outstanding performance that moved and transported us with deeply emotional notes.
Her passion for the organ truly illuminated the stage. - Alexander de BieNETHERLANDS3rd Prize
Warm congratulations to Alexander de Bie for his dazzling performance!
His talent and dedication to the art of the organ have earned him a well-deserved spot on the podium.
Past Winners
Discover the talented organists who have left their mark on past editions of the competition.
