Harpe en Avesnois
The international harp festival in Sambre-Avesnois, between concerts and masterclasses
About Harpe en Avesnois
The Harpe en Avesnois International Festival is a unique event in France dedicated to the promotion and dissemination of the harp in all its forms. Created in 1995 by the association Harpe en Avesnois, founded in 1994, this festival offers each year concerts, masterclasses, and meetings with internationally renowned harpists in several towns in Avesnois (Maubeuge, Feignies, Louvroil, Ferrière-la-Grande). Driven by the passion of its founder, Dr. Jean Duprey, the festival has contributed for over 30 years to the influence of this instrument in the North of France.
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Harpe en Avesnois: a unique festival dedicated to the harp
The Harpe en Avesnois International Festival is a unique cultural event of its kind in France, entirely devoted to the harp and its many facets. Created in 1995, it is organized by the Harpe en Avesnois association, founded in 1994 at the instigation of Dr. Jean Duprey with the mission of developing and promoting the harp in the Sambre-Avesnois-Hainaut region.
Passionate Origins
At the origin of the festival is the passion of a group of musicians led by Mrs. Dompierre-Lanet, who had created in the 1990s a 4-harp ensemble called Ensemble Orphea, with Juliette Jegou, Justine Jumez, and Marianne Vandyck. It was from this musical initiative that the association was born, with the desire to encourage the teaching and dissemination of the harp through masterclasses and concerts accessible to all.
Concerts throughout Avesnois
The festival takes place in several towns in the region: Maubeuge, Feignies, Louvroil, and Ferrière-la-Grande, using concert halls, churches, and heritage sites. Each edition offers a series of concerts showcasing both internationally renowned established harpists and emerging young talents.
Masterclasses and Transmission
The educational dimension is at the heart of the project. The masterclasses, led by international soloists, allow harpists of all levels to perfect their technique and discover new repertoires. The festival explores the harp in all its diversity: classical harp, Celtic harp, jazz harp, and contemporary repertoire.
Over 30 Years of Commitment
For over 30 years, the Harpe en Avesnois Festival has contributed to the cultural influence of this rural area in the North of France. In early 2025, the festival lost its president and founder, Dr. Jean Duprey, but the association continues his work with the same passion and artistic excellence.
Harpe en Avesnois — edition 2026
The 32nd edition of the Harpe en Avesnois International Festival will be held from March 13 to 15, 2026, at the Espace Gérard Philipe in Feignies. A 'Voyage Interceltique' masterclass will be offered on March 14 and 15, with registration required by February 15, 2026.
Harpe en Avesnois 2026 - 32nd Edition
The 32nd edition of the Harpe en Avesnois International Festival will take place from March 13 to 15, 2026, at the Espace Gérard Philipe in Feignies. The program includes a Voyage Interceltique masterclass on March 14 and 15, blending harp and Celtic music. Registrations for the masterclass are open until February 15, 2026.
Programme Harpe en Avesnois 2026
2026 Program
- Friday, March 13: Opening concert at Espace Gérard Philipe, Feignies
- Saturday, March 14 - Sunday, March 15: 'Voyage Interceltique' Masterclass
Highlights Harpe en Avesnois 2026
- 32nd edition of the festival
- 'Voyage Interceltique' Masterclass on March 14 and 15
- Espace Gérard Philipe in Feignies as the main venue
Prices Harpe en Avesnois 2026
Practical information — Harpe en Avesnois
Concert Venues
- Espace Gérard Philipe - Feignies (main venue for the 2026 edition)
- Salle des fêtes - Maubeuge
- Churches of Louvroil and Ferrière-la-Grande (exceptional acoustics)
- Théâtre du Manège - Maubeuge (depending on the edition)
Access
By Car
Maubeuge is located about 100 km southeast of Lille, accessible via the A2 (Maubeuge exit) then the N2. The various festival towns (Feignies, Louvroil, Ferrière-la-Grande) are accessible from Maubeuge in 5 to 15 minutes. Free parking near the concert venues.
By Train
Maubeuge station is served by TER Hauts-de-France from Lille (1h15), Valenciennes (30 min), and Aulnoye-Aymeries (10 min). From the station, Maubeuge concert venues are within walking distance. For Feignies and other towns, additional transportation will be needed.
By Bus
Stibus bus network for travel within the Maubeuge-Val de Sambre urban area.
Prices and Registration
Concerts at affordable prices (around 5 to 15 euros). Reduced rates for students and children. Masterclasses require prior registration (registration before the deadline indicated on the website, usually one month before the event). Masterclasses are open to harpists of all levels. Consult the official website for detailed prices for each concert and masterclass registration procedures.
Accommodation
Maubeuge and its surroundings offer hotels, bed and breakfasts, and gîtes. The Avesnois tourist office can help you find accommodation.
Contact
Association Harpe en Avesnois
Rue Vauban, 59600 Maubeuge
Phone: 03 27 64 13 72
Email: [email protected]
Website: harpeenavesnois.org
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Travel to this festival
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Where does it take place — Harpe en Avesnois
Divers lieux en Avesnois
Rue Vauban, 59600 Maubeuge