Concerts and castles

It's the season for fairytale venues

Summer has finally arrived here in southwest France. The sun is out after months of very unseasonal rain, and with the French elections out of the way, it’s time to celebrate. In the village, the annual fête foraine has come to its noisy conclusion, and this weekend it’s Bastille Day, with music, food, and dancing in the square followed by fireworks on the river bank.

It’s festival time for musicians as well, and I’m writing this newsletter in between rehearsals. There’s been a lot of new repertoire to get on top of this summer, and I’m delighted to be playing with fabulous French colleagues in some stunning locations. Yesterday’s venue, the 12th century Chateau de Fremauret, looked like it might be home to Beauty and the Beast. Or perhaps Rapunzel let down her hair from that turret?

Today, as it's Wednesday, it must be a Mercredis cachés concert. This brilliant regional festival puts on a pop-up concert in a secret venue every Wednesday throughout July and August. The audience know only which village, and once there, follow the signs to the venue which changes each week. Last year it was in the garden of the old presbytery, and this week it “might be” here (but 🤫don’t tell anyone… it’s a secret!)

Then tomorrow, we’re playing trios for flute, cello and piano in the 11th century church of Monteton. Perched high on a hilltop, the Église de Monteton is known as the church of the 13 bell towers for its spectacular view of 13 church spires along the river valley. The programme includes trios by Martinu, Farrenc, and Kuhlau, as well as the Debussy cello sonata and Messiaen’s Le Merle noir. And afterwards, a dégustation (wine tasting) under the stars provided by the festival sponsors.

If you happen to be in southwest France, you are very welcome to join us!

A musical dégustation

If this has inspired you to have your own French musical dégustation, I think you will enjoy L’Amour, our collection of French music for flute and piano with works by Gounod, Saint-Saëns, Massenet, Hahn, Chausson, Duparc, Offenbach and Godard.

Here’s what one reviewer says: “Perfect if you’d like to indulge in some lovely French melody! … The arrangements are great too so buy and enjoy!” (Chris Hankin)

The digital edition comes with piano accompaniment tracks included so you can play along with John.