Les Concerts en Valognais

Les Concerts en Valognais: Music in the Stones of Cotentin

Since 1987, Les Concerts en Valognais have been resonating classical, jazz, and world music in the historic churches and residences of Valognes and its surroundings. Founded by Colette Pariot, this festival is supported by the Association culturelle de Valognes and has established itself over the decades as a leading musical event in Cotentin.

Exceptional Concert Venues

One of the festival's unique features is the choice of its concert venues. Musicians perform in the churches of Valognes and surrounding towns — Rocheville, Colomby, Brix, Négreville, Sottevast, Tamerville, Montaigu-la-Brisette, Yvetot-Bocage, Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte — as well as in private residences usually closed to the public. These heritage settings offer remarkable acoustics and an intimate atmosphere conducive to listening.

An Eclectic and Demanding Program

The program of Les Concerts en Valognais mixes classical, baroque, jazz, and world music with a constant concern for quality and diversity. The 37th edition in 2025 featured the A'dam Vocal Quartet, Trio Zarafa and Mescla, jazz saxophonist Louis Sclavis, Duo Néféli, and Trio Sora. The 38th edition in 2026 will feature Déborah Nemtanu and Pierre Cussac (violin and accordion), Fanny Ménégoz's quartet with jazz, Into The Winds with medieval and Renaissance instruments, the Octuor Cello 8, and Fanny Azzuro on piano.

A Festival Rooted in its Territory

Les Concerts en Valognais is more than just a music festival: it contributes to the enhancement of the architectural and cultural heritage of Cotentin. By occupying rarely accessible venues, the festival invites the public to discover the rich built heritage of the region while listening to talented artists. This dual dimension — musical and heritage — makes Les Concerts en Valognais a unique event in Normandy.