Fête de la Musique in Montmorency

The Fête de la Musique in Montmorency: harmony under the chestnut trees

Every June 21st, Montmorency celebrates the Fête de la Musique in a historical and natural setting that gives it a unique atmosphere in Île-de-France. Perched on a plateau overlooking the plain, this town of art and history in the Val-d'Oise is surrounded by the majestic forest of Montmorency and retains an intact medieval charm in its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses.

Montmorency and Jean-Jacques Rousseau

It is impossible to mention Montmorency without mentioning Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who stayed there from 1756 to 1762 and wrote his major works there — Julie, or the New Heloise, The Social Contract, and Emile, or On Education. The Enlightenment philosopher was himself a passionate music lover and a composer in his spare time; he notably wrote The Village Soothsayer, an opera-comique that was very successful in the 18th century. The Fête de la Musique in Montmorency thus fits into a philosophical and musical tradition rooted in the very identity of the town.

The Saint-Martin collegiate church and the historic center in celebration

The Saint-Martin collegiate church of Montmorency, a remarkable Flamboyant Gothic building from the 16th century, is one of the town's architectural jewels. During the Fête de la Musique, this church can host concerts of sacred or classical music that benefit from the exceptional natural acoustics of the place. The collégiale square and the surrounding alleys host more popular and festive concerts.

An eclectic program in a historic setting

The Fête de la Musique in Montmorency offers a varied program adapted to this particular context:

• Classical and baroque music in the Saint-Martin collegiate church
• Jazz and chamber music in gardens and private courtyards
• French songs and variety music on the market square
• Contemporary music for younger generations
• Conservatory concerts in public spaces

Rousseau's House, an unmissable cultural site

Jean-Jacques Rousseau's House, a museum dedicated to the philosopher's life and work in Montmorency, is a major cultural attraction. During the Fête de la Musique, the museum may organize special events related to Rousseau's passion for music, offering visitors an original and scholarly approach to 18th-century music.

A free event in a postcard setting

The Fête de la Musique in Montmorency is completely free and accessible to all. The open-air concerts, in the enchanting setting of the medieval old town and at the foot of the chestnut forest, offer an unforgettable musical and visual experience that attracts residents and visitors from all over the Paris region every year.