An Extraordinary Treat in Troyes!

There are a few things that not many are lucky enough to do, and I have done one of them today! I had the privilege of having lunch with a world-renowned professional organist in Troyes, France and afterward, hearing him play in one of the most beautiful cathedrals I have ever seen! His name is Michael Matthes and he is incredible!

Photo credit to Philippe Desquesnes

The cathedral was built between the 13th and the 17th century and most importantly, has one of the largest and most lovely sounding organs I've ever seen or heard.

The cathedral is massive and it is difficult to show its size in a picture. You have to tilt your head all the way back to see the top of the highest tower. Amazing.

So, inside this organ there are about 6000 pipes! From only a few inches tall up to many, many feet. It's incredible to see the size of some of them.

Photo credit to Philippe Desquesnes

It was an absolute dream being allowed to go way up into the top part of the church and getting to see the stained glass up close.

To make it even better, we had just stopped at the world's best chocolatier shop (literally, it won the world championship in chocolate making!) and we were able to eat our delicious chocolate treats up there while listening to Michael play a few very complex and amazing songs. My favorite was when he played Tocata in D minor, I seriously had chills and goosbumps throughout the entire piece.

This was an incredible experience that, as I said, very few get to experience. I am so grateful to my aunt and uncle who planned this event for me, it was breath-taking. Watching Michael play was really eye-opening, you don't realize how much organ players have to multi-task in order to play at this professional level! There are three rows of keys for your hands, a row for your feet, pedals and sound changers at your feet, buttons and sound changers for your hands, etc. It really is impressive.

Photo credit to Philippe Desquesnes

I know it will be in French, but I encourage you to check out some of Michael's work as he really is an exceptional player. His website is http://michaelmatthes.com/.


Until next time!