15 August 25 August 2024

Churches of Puisaye-Forterre

The Puisaye Summer Festivals, an iconic classical music festival, has firmly anchored itself in the cultural landscape of Yonne, Burgundy-Franche-Comté and even France. This annual event, which is now celebrating 20 years of success, conquer the hearts of classical music lovers of the region.

The historical emergence of the Estivales de Puisaye festival

Founded by Rémi Gousseau, passionate about classical music and fervent defender of artistic culture, the Estivales de Puisaye were created in response to the need to create a space where classical music could resonate throughout the world. heart of the Burgundian countryside. Since its inception, the festival has experienced impressive growth, attracting an increasingly diverse audience.

Renowned artists on show

The Estivales de Puisaye welcomed exceptional performers who delighted the audience with memorable performances, such as Gaëtane Prouvost, Aurélien Pontier, Philippe Brocard, Diana Higbee and many others.

Each edition of the festival was marked by the presence renowned artists, both national and international, from violin virtuosos to piano masters. From contemporary creations to timeless classics by great European composers like Mozart, Schubert or Beethoven, every note resonates through the countryside, creating an unforgettable musical experience.

Rémi Gousseau: The classical music visionary behind the festival

Rémi Gousseau, former artistic director of the festival and conductor of the association, played a central role in the continued success of the Estivales de Puisaye. His passion for classical music, combined with his artistic vision, helped shape an event that transcends borders and unites music lovers in the region. Thanks to his dedication, the festival has been able to expand its reach beyond Yonne, attracting visitors from the departments of Nièvre, Loiret and beyond. Now a composer, he gives full measure to the young artistic talents of the Masters of Saint-Louis de Gonzague, around which the Estivales were created.

A look at previous editions

Each year, the Estivales de Puisaye offered a varied program, highlighting the diversity of the classical repertoire, whether historical or more recent. Offenbach's works all took shape thanks to Gonzague's Maîtrise Saint-Louis in wonderfully staged operettas. In 2023, Offenbach gave way to Claude Tarrasse with “The Labors of Hercules”. Most concerts are given in churches in the communes of Puisaye and Forterre. but also in Loiret, Nièvre l'Aillantais or Auxerrois. The Estivales de Puisaye are exported. THE castle of Saint-Fargeau enjoys welcoming them every year in its large room. Everyone agrees that the Estivales de Puisaye are one of the unmissable festivals in Puisaye-Forterre in August.

During your August vacation, enjoy a musical interlude. Each edition will offer you an operetta (performed exclusively in Champignelles), a symphony concert, show, recital, and concerts, of sacred music, piano, quintets and other musical groups, without forgetting the performance of the Estivales de Puisaye choir and the closing concert.

When do the Estivales de Puisaye take place?

The Estivales de Puisaye are held every year in August. The launch takes place around August 15.

Can we participate in the Estivales choir?

Of course. Every year, the Estivales de Puisaye organizes a choral singing course. The choristers, often amateurs, take part in this course during the festival period. The choir thus formed participates in the closing concert.

Where to sleep during the Estivales?

The Estivales de Puisaye take place in the departments of Yonne, Nièvre and Loiret. La Puisaye-Forterre is thus at the heart of the festival. Several accommodations, vacation rentals, guest rooms, hotels or campsites are at your disposal. Remember to make your reservations well in advance. Discover all our accommodation.

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