Festival de la Grange de Meslay

The Legacy of Sviatoslav Richter

The Festival de la Grange de Meslay is one of the oldest and most prestigious classical music festivals in France. Founded in 1964 by the legendary Russian pianist Sviatoslav Richter, this festival was born from the desire to create a place where classical music would be accessible to all through quality concerts at affordable prices.

A 13th-Century Barn with Remarkable Acoustics

The festival takes place in the Grange de Meslay, an exceptional 13th-century building located in Parçay-Meslay, on the outskirts of Tours. This former tithe barn offers remarkable acoustics that captivated Richter himself during his first visit. The stone vaults and medieval carpentry create a unique atmosphere, conducive to listening to chamber music and recitals.

Concerts Beyond the Barn

For several years, the festival has extended its reach "beyond the walls" by offering concerts in various locations in the Tours metropolitan area:

• Hôtel de Ville de Tours
• Chapelle Saint-Libert in Tours
• Nouvel Atrium in Saint-Avertin

A Program of Excellence

Each year, the festival hosts artists of international renown. Among the regularly invited pianists and musicians are names like Nelson Goerner, Nikolaï Luganski, Jean-Frédéric Neuburger, Dmitry Masleev, Alexandre Tharaud, violinist Renaud Capuçon, and the Quatuor Modigliani.

A Launchpad for Young Talents

True to the open spirit of its founder, the festival also gives prominence to young talents. In partnership with ProQuartet - Centre Européen de Musique de Chambre, the festival programs emerging artists from the Centre-Val de Loire region who perform as opening acts for the main concerts.

Over 60 Years of Music

With over 60 years of existence, the Festival de la Grange de Meslay is a monument of French musical heritage. The association Les Fêtes Musicales en Touraine passionately perpetuates Richter's legacy, maintaining the artistic excellence and accessibility that have always characterized this exceptional event.