World-renowned organist and titular organist of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris leads a four-day masterclass as part of the 3rd International Organ Festival “The Organs of St. Anastasia”

As part of the 3rd International Organ Festival “The Organs of St. Anastasia”, the Organ Masterclass – Interpretation and Technique will be held from 23 to 26 August 2026 at the Cathedral of St. Anastasia in Zadar. The masterclass will be led by one of the greatest authorities in the world of organ music – Professor Olivier Latry from Paris.

This exceptional musical and educational event offers students of music schools, organ students, professional organists, young musicians, and advanced amateurs a unique opportunity to work with an artist whose career has been marked by outstanding interpretation, distinguished pedagogical work, and a profound connection with the great tradition of the French organ school.

Olivier Latry – one of the greatest authorities in the world of organ music

French organist Olivier Latry is one of the most prominent ambassadors of organ music today. At the age of only 23, he was appointed titular organist of the renowned Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, becoming one of the guardians of one of the world’s most important organ traditions. Since 2012, he has also held the title of Organist Emeritus of the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal.

Throughout his distinguished international career, he has performed in the world’s most prestigious concert halls, including the Berlin Philharmonie, Philharmonie de Paris, Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, Gewandhaus in Leipzig, Musikverein in Vienna, and Royal Festival Hall in London, and has collaborated with leading international orchestras and conductors.

He is particularly renowned as a masterful interpreter of the organ repertoire from all periods, an exceptional improviser, and an artist constantly exploring new expressive possibilities of the instrument. His artistic work encompasses concert performance, teaching, recordings, and the promotion of contemporary organ literature.

Work on interpretation, technique, and the expressive possibilities of the organ

The Zadar masterclass is focused on deepening the interpretative and technical skills required for the performance of organ repertoire from different stylistic periods – from the Baroque, through Romanticism, to contemporary music.

Through individual lessons and group sessions, participants will work on:

playing technique and coordination of manuals and pedalboard,

articulation, phrasing, and shaping of musical expression,

stylistic interpretation of works from different historical periods,

registration and creation of appropriate sound colours,

analysis of musical form and structure,

preparation for concerts, auditions, and public performances.

A special value of this masterclass lies in the individual approach to each participant. Every active participant prepares two works from different stylistic periods – one Baroque piece and one Romantic work – which will be further developed during the sessions with Professor Latry, focusing on technical and interpretative aspects.

Masterclass on the Eisenbarth organ of the Cathedral of St. Anastasia

The masterclass will take place on the great organ of the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, built in 2010 by the renowned Eisenbarth organ workshop from Passau, Germany.

With its rich tonal possibilities and disposition inspired by the French symphonic organ style of the 19th century, this instrument provides exceptional opportunities for the study of a wide repertoire and the development of interpretative skills. The organ has three manuals, pedal, 4,100 pipes, and 56 stops.

The Cathedral of St. Anastasia will once again become a meeting place for outstanding artists, young musicians, and lovers of organ music, confirming its role as one of the important centres of organ culture in Croatia.

Participants’ Final Concert

The four-day masterclass will conclude on Wednesday, 26 August 2026, at 8:00 PM, with a final concert by the participants, open to the public.

During the concert, participants will present the results of their intensive work with Professor Olivier Latry. Following the concert, a ceremonial presentation of certificates of participation for active participants will take place, followed by a reception and gathering of participants, professor, and organisers.

Applications and Information

The number of places is limited to 15 active participants and 15 passive participants in order to ensure high-quality and individualised work with each participant.

Masterclass participation fee:

Active participants: €350

Passive participants: €200

Applications are submitted via the application form, which can be downloaded here:

➡️ https://forms.gle/s4rSb7R23CYHBCXt7

Applications can also be submitted via:

📧 arsorganizadar@gmail.com or factor_zd@net.hr

☎️ +385 91 253 2236

The 3rd International Organ Festival “The Organs of St. Anastasia” continues its mission of connecting world-renowned organists, young musicians, and audiences, creating a space for artistic excellence, education, and the development of organ culture.