In the 17th and 18th centuries, it was a revered rite of passage for ambitious young organists and composers to embark on a Grand Tour—a multi-year journey across Europe to study under master musicians, immerse themselves in regional styles and instrument-building traditions, and complete their musical education. Inspired by this historical tradition, the Göteborg International Organ Academy and the Smarano International Organ Academy have joined forces and are thrilled to present the Petit Tour: a carefully curated, tailor-made sequence of three consecutive international organ academies. Designed to seamlessly flow into one another, this modern Petit Tour (July 20–August 13, 2026) takes participants on an immersive and comprehensive journey from the roots of early Italian keyboard music to the monumental North German Baroque, culminating in the unique historical organ-building heritage of the Swedish countryside.

1. Smarano Academy (July 20–Aug 1, 2026): We begin in L’Aquila in Italy with unique 17th-century organs before heading north to Smarano. Dive deep into early keyboard repertoire, partimento, and historical improvisation. www.smaranoacademy.com/home

2. Arp Schnitger Academy (Aug 3–8, 2026): Travel north to Gothenburg, Sweden, and the awe-inspiring North German Baroque organ in Örgryte New Church. Master the grand architecture of the North German school with a special focus on Buxtehude and Weckman. www.organacademy.org/schnitger-academy

3. Schiörlin Academy (Aug 9–13, 2026): The grand finale in the picturesque Swedish province of Östergötland. Experience elegant 18th-century country organs by Pehr Schiörlin, highlighting works by J. S. Bach, Krebs, and Mendelssohn. www.organacademy.org/schiorlin-academy

Download the flyer. 

Info

SMARANO
Please submit your application through the application form available on this website.

SCHNITGER
Please submit your application to camille.bloche@organacademy.se, indicating your interest in the Arp Schnitger Academy 2026 and including a brief CV, no later than May 15, 2026. All applicants will be notified of acceptance by June 1, 2026.

SCHIÖRLIN
To apply, email camille.bloche@organacademy.se no later than July 29, 2026, with the following details:
• First and last name
• Phone number
• Current occupation
• Repertoire you plan to prepare.