Saint-Sulpice organ. Sophie improvisation

[@TheBaritoneCrooner]

The French school never ceases to amaze me. Talk about unbelievable artistry! I've always loved the powerful symphonic sweep of this particular Cavaille Coll. From a lush purr to a snarling beast! A veritable wall of sound!

[@sarahbecker9824]

I come back to watch this every few years and want to burst into applause every time.

[@johannsebastian422]

Same here!!

[@richardbirney-smith5362]

Wow! I thought that I had heard every one of Sophie's improvisations available on KZbin, but this one from ten years ago is new to me. She remains my favourite organ improviser: always melodic. I was able to have a conversation with her one Sunday afternoon in August 2018 after the audition d'orgue at Saint-Sulpice. I doubt that she remembers me, but I remember and treasure our conversation.

[@matthieulamiable4757]

Je suis presque effrayé d'une telle maîtrise au service de la liberté. Quelle puissance d'expression, quelle variété de couleurs, quelle générosité du geste musical.

[@sarahbecker9824]

I don't remember how I stumbled into this part of KZbin, by my jaw was on the floor through this entire video.

[@bjornkeyn5644]

Sarah Becker

[@X2O8MZV9]

Yes, she is a great improviser

[@GuillaumeZahra]

Same here, specialy at the end !

[@claudebammert736]

bischofsweihen

[@robertglass4414]

Imagine if this was recorded in the nave.

[@karmelicanke]

the final chords brought me to a crescendo of chills and goose bumps, a thrilling experience to hear this improvisation.

[@raphaelmeyer9940]

Still fascinated by the awakening of this wonder, in the sound of Barker machines. The electronic will never replace this mechanical emotion... It's like Swiss watch :)

[@Sathrandur]

I absolutely agree. Isn't it just wonderful? It also makes it much easier to see what she's playing, especially in the pedal.

[@FestivalWissembourg]

+Raphaël Meyer Mechanical emotion ???? What's the fuck ???

[@raphaelmeyer9940]

What a vulgarity... Are u a fuckin gangsta ? Try to use your brain and imagine what it can mean to see a fully mechanical traction instrument of 150 years old, still running and without any restauration, and you might find it. I must confess that in your case, I'm not sure you will get it...

[@charlesdavis7087]

+Raphaël Meyer Why not combine synthesizers and great organs... and great choirs... and why not connect them up around the world. Organ in Paris, choir in Montreal, synthesize (the Syn-clavier) at UCLA? Why not, indeed. It can be done now. CVD

[@raphaelmeyer9940]

+Charles Davis I fully agree with you. It is of high importance to synthesize these historical instruments and why not implementing them in numerical organs elsewhere. But my point is that it is even more important to keep them as intact as possible when restoring them (contrary to what has been done with many organs in France)

[@anthonywcsu]

This has to be one of my favorite organ improvisations on KZbin. Her melodic development and harmonies are incredible.

[@matthews6705]

That was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard

[@charlesdavis7087]

I only wish (pray) that your works are being recorded properly. You have obviously been touch by the very spirit of Harmonia Herself. I've listened now to this KZbin post 20 plus times and each time I am absolutely set into a state of AWE. Blessings dear Sophie. CVD

[@michaelschantz6708]

Sohphie-Veronique is one of the finest organists and greatest improvisateurs in the world. Her talent is a phenomenal gift in the renowned tradition of the French Organ School. Witnessing such a performance, on this legendary masterpiece of Cavaille-Coll, transports one to that nexus where the artistic pursuit of mankind joins with the inspiration of the Divine. My heart raced with joy during this performance. Bravo Mdme. Choplin!

[@charlesdavis7087]

My heart too explodes with awe and blinding wonder that a being called Sophie lives now on earth. This is more wondrous and glorious than walking on water. And one can both see it and hear it .... NOW !!!! on earth. Oct. 12th, 2017 AD. Behold the truth for yourself! CVD

[@tropicjam7343]

michael schantz you are absolutely true;listen to jb dupont as well,Montpellier .

[@charlesdavis7087]

Well said !!!

[@vanmusician]

I attended Daniel Roth's recital celebrating his 30th anniversary as organist of St. Sulpice. He shared the programme with Mme Choplin. They played several duets including one with her at the choir organ. I was sitting near the altar surrounded by the most glorious organ sounds I have ever experienced!

[@keplergso8369]

Nowdays it is original to improvise in a classical style ! I like this improvisation, very interesting modulations. Of course, Barker machines are a bit noisy, but it is so nice to see mechanical machines, instead of electric or electronic keyboards ! That is authenticity !! And it works ! Thank you very much for this video.

[@jamesbarclay7361]

Sophie Veronique is magnificent. She belongs in the same breath as Jean Demissieux. This is THE master class in organ improvisation, structure, progression and invention. And also in handling one of the greatest instruments ever constructed. Brava!

[@carrietide]

James Barclay She is in the same breath as PIERRE COCHEREAU

[@Phonojoy]

Her playing is so wonderful, I am lost for any words.

[@vanmusician]

I have heard Mme Choplin at St. Sulpice several times. Down in the church you don't hear the action noise - just the most beautiful sounds of any organ in the world. Her improvisations are stunning - always a real harmonic movement and clear structure.

[@mymanjosquin]

John Mitchell that’s what i thought, & why they’re affectionately called “tracker clackers.”

[@EwicoCylinder]

The real music here is the Barker machine in action. Don't wanna say something against mrs coplins high talented improvisation art, but without the clacking of the barcker machine i would miss something here.

[@GautierBergeret]

Un an après l'avoir découverte, je réécoute votre improvisation et les mêmes larmes, ineffables, me montent aux yeux ! Je suis persuadé qu'elle fera partie de ces mélodies qui nous accompagnerons pour la liturgie céleste, auprès de Dieu.

[@gerryszymanski8468]

This still blows my mind and my heart.

[@charleymendesdesousa-fj8gm]

eletric madame Sophie 👏👏👏 always a great emotion

[@jmdujardin]

c'est assez extraordinaire...Que dirait l'enregistrement encephalogramme de Mme Cauchefer Choplin pendant une telle improvisation ? fascinant, vraiment, merci à vous, Sophie-Véronique !

[@damienriba4385]

Absolument fascinant !!! Hallucinante Sophie-Véronique, merciiii

[@Bunhouse]

I stand stupefied by this spontaneous creation! What a gift! Merci.

[@TedLemon]

Thank you for sharing this. I am reduced to a limp rag from the beauty and power of this performance.

[@organo3112]

Marvellous. Sophie is a treasure and a great, great talent.

[@jonasrosengren9093]

This is the most fascinating and wonderful organ improvisations I've seen ever...

[@michedowning7088]

Quelle artiste extraordinaire! La grande tradition de l orgue français.. il n y a que çà! BRAVO!!!

[@donjose4656]

!!! Magnifique ! Quelle organiste extraordinaire (que j'ai découverte sur KZbin...) Un grand Bravo, madame Cauchefer-Choplin !!

[@geoffbush8915]

I saw this & cried with JOY.

[@jamesbarclay7361]

I also wept. Pure transcendent joy.

[@markemanuele1929]

I just had the same experience!!! I would have loved to have heard this in the Sanctuary!!

[@jaredburrows]

Astonishing. Crying tears of joy at the energy and sound! Thank you!

[@charlesdavis7087]

There is on doubt in my mind, your facility at la grand organ is a breath of The Most High being breathed upon the entire world. !!!! A.T.O.M. Charles.

[@mizuqatsi]

Sophie Véronique Cauchefer Choplin, Why is this not stated in the description? it's not hard is it?

[@charlesdavis7087]

Absolutely thrilling. What music is in your soul! You bless us all. CVD

[@russedav5]

Wow! So fantastic a sound at the bench; just think how astounding it would have sounded in the sanctuary!

[@Mr05241948]

A stunning performance on a wonderful Pipe Organ.

[@davidlane753]

This is totally remarkable. Just when you think the organ has no more to give, there's more power. The playing is extraordinary. I'd loved to have heard it in the cathedral itself.

[@paulcaswell2813]

Sorry to disappoint - St Sulpice is only a parish church. Paris's cathedral is (or should be) Notre-Dame.

[@mizuqatsi]

Sophie est extraordinaire !

[@raymondmoderski3216]

Bravo Mme. Sophie Véronique Cauchefer Choplin! I used to come each Sunday in the spring of 1980 to hear Messr. Grunwald. I thought him to be one of the greatest improvisers I had ever heard, BUT you are the top of the class! Thank you for your sharing of your magnificent gift.

[@Mitchosaure]

"ALLEEEZ!! Prestant, siouplé!"... Sophie-Véronique Cauchefer-Choplin manie cette vénérable mécanique avec une virtuosité sans égale! Une sortie de messe à St. Sulpice avec elle à la console, c'est un aller simple pour le paradis! Et quelle splendide complicité avec ses registrants!..

[@pamelaparzych3489]

This is simply beautiful and this gal Sophie is very talented and focused. If I were in this church, I would think, for sure that I was transcending to Heaven....very deep and compelling. Not often that one gets to revel in such beautiful music. Thank you for this delight!

[@MrUseur]

Wow, so etwas habe ich noch nie gesehen und gehört. Toll. Absolute Spitzenklasse.

[@fhugheveleigh2]

Extraordinarily wonderful to see and hear this lady play her magic on one of the world's great organs.

[@robertmbruno]

So grande ,building and building ...A great team as well . Thanks for this revealing backstage view .

[@henryhunt5618]

Wow! What a knuckle buster and such great music and sounds....well done Sophie!!!!

[@zamarioijean4736]

Bravo pour cette jeune organiste brillante exerçant ses talents sur l'un des orgues les plus importants de la capitale !

[@tubamaxima187]

Yes, this a stunning performance and composition. Wow, what talent !!!!The French organists are really good at improvising.

[@MANTLEBERG]

Still in love..i look at this evry day, just to remind me how crap i am.

[@crossiqu]

Since you have an ear and judgment to appreciate this wonder, you are not crap at all ;-)

[@marioribeirodeazevedoneto311]

Sophie é radical quando toca. Adoro! O órgão é um instrumento completo e somente pessoas como Sophie podem nos proporcionar um concerto desse quilate. Parabéns!

[@buxthierry5518]

Merci à vous, femme sublime pour un orgue sublime

[@charlesdavis7087]

There is NO doubt... (sorry about my spelling). I am being overwhelmed. Speechless, struck dump. OMG... !!!!

[@userunknown2771]

Sophie you are a incredible talented human

[@BassBusMusic]

This could pass for a great piece of Prog Rock. You could imagine Tony Banks or Rick Wakeman playing that. Wonderful.

[@nickdouglass421]

You are absolutely right my friend. I have shared this with my Prog Followers on Twitter and we are ALL in agreement with you!

[@olivierlattion]

I was thinking the same thing!

[@marcbnaylor7340]

She is a wonderful Organist and a phenomenal improviser

[@capeman7500]

Brilliant...so melodic and musically interesting.

[@charlesdavis7087]

A Living Master of Sound and Music.

[@sermonvenes]

She was 1rst price of improvisation. It's obvious here. Brilliant, just brilliant.Carry on this way and once you'll pull out souls out of nowhere....

[@Tsiniastje]

Tout simplement superbe!

[@keithbickle6467]

Magnificent and just listen to the cantus firmus in the middle of it all. So exciting!

[@jicirfule8123]

on s'en lasse pas !!!

[@organistpeter]

Das ist eine der besten Organistinnen überhaupt!

[@henryhunt5618]

how well I remember our time a few years back with you at the console!!!

[@rafikbaladi6555]

Ouch, marvelous.... Just powerful and stunning. I forgot to breathe

[@Likes_Trains]

Wow! How she can improvise so fast in incredible! Love the harmonic progression :D

[@OperaNut]

Sophie is music itself. 💜

[@georgemurphy2579]

This instrument has a sonic character like none other. It was the inspirstion for some of the greatest music ever written. Albert Schweitzer hailed it as the world's most beautiful organ!

[@alf3k1]

SO good, just AMAZING!

[@peteacher52]

Le Grande Dame of the organ!

[@matthiasnicolai8306]

Breathtaking improvisation! Sometimes I thought Jordan Rudess might have played something similar...;-)

[@sacrumsonus8548]

I know it’s an improvisation but I would love the transcription of this!

[@TheBaritoneCrooner]

I mean it’s amazing at the console but can you imagine how it sounded out in the room? That’s a recording I’d love to hear! 😲

[@sacrumsonus8548]

@@TheBaritoneCrooner I would love to travel and hear this organ being played in the room especially with a player of this level.

[@charlesdebagny8871]

L'une des plus belles créations à l'orgue que je connaisse ! A mettre au panthéon.

[@johannebach9322]

super incroyable!!! Soli Deo Gloria!!!

[@WoodymC]

A marvellous and powerful improvisation, BRAVO!! According to the audible tracker action at the beginning, this surely sounded like some hard work for the fingers. ;-)

[@stylusfantasticus]

GOD BLESS CHARLES SPAKMAN BARKER AND CHEVALLIER EMMERITE ARISTIDE CAVAILLÉ-COLL

[@mariagraziazollo9180]

Bravissima! Superb Improvvisation!

[@MANTLEBERG]

i have always said the art of improvisation is to start with a basic theme, and play around with it, start simple and build around and up, you may have noticed sophie plays...a.b.c.d, thats a good routine, then do the same in f...etc a"...brilliant

[@leongreen8088]

WOW! All five keyboards coupled!

[@mymanjosquin]

Leon Green that’s what the Barker system is for. probably impossible w/o it.

[@michaelroberts6894]

Amazing artist !

[@michaelroberts6894]

This woman is the greatest

[@michaelroberts6894]

I try to improvise but this is such splendid playing how can anyone say it is not divinely inspired!

[@josephlindquist506]

Inspired it is. She is open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. That is a GIFT.

[@markwood5889]

This is inspirational playing. Surprised to see it listed above as "Comedy"!! - one thing it definitely isn't!

[@tropicjam7343]

She reinvented progressiv rock!

[@thierrycarre4701]

vraiment sublime , même pour un non musicien ,merci

[@danielgolden5352]

I love the sound of the mechanical action keys...

[@salvatorelombardo6563]

superbamente brava il meglio del meglio

[@shtushakutusha2260]

Greetings from Russia! It was just an amasing performance! Hope to hear this organist in our country. And hope to see your in Russia! Many thanks)

[@charlesdavis7087]

It only took them three years after she blew the roof off the cathedral to get it repaired. But that, as they say, is another story. Vive la Sophie.

[@MunkiLoops]

9 yrs ago and im now seeing this. Im so late.

[@jicirfule8123]

toujours au Top !!! ALLEZ !!!! crescendo !

[@gerryszymanski8468]

Les Anches!

[@MotorGoblin]

Everyone's talking about her amazing skills but the four ghosts playing the other keyboards seem pretty good as well.

[@npal379]

Awesome!

[@tropicjam7343]

It s nice that people start being aware of sophie c ch. 's genius .I think that pat petheny would have like the colour(s) of this improvisation.

[@jamesbarclay7361]

Every instrument has its own. I really cannot compare organs in that manner. I adore the Ste. Sulpice organ and there are very few artists who can make it do what it is capable of.

[@d6ire]

at 1:59 where is this tune being played ?

[@utente_anonimo]

where is this fragment from?

[@craigdoran6811]

Magnifique

[@billginnj6595]

Brilliant!!

[@johnstag1391]

Wonderful

[@jacqueslahondere4649]

beaucoup d'originalités dans cette improvisation ; j'ai aimé cette oeuvre qui "sort des chemins battus "

[@carrietide]

BRAVISSIMA

[@bubffm]

Sophie Veronique Choplin is hard to beat. Fabulous improvisation. Sound is course a major drawback but not to blame on her

[@jeromepoinsot8947]

It sounds like a Daft Punk's track on a dance floor ! Amazing ! Quelle énergie !

[@JacquesBRUNO13007]

Merci, tout simplement, d'exister Sophie Véronique.

[@ericfitzgerald866]

Bravissima!