Harpe en Avesnois

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.