Les Estivales d'ArtenetrA

Les Estivales d'ArtenetrA: Musical Excellence in the Heart of the Deux-Sèvres Heritage

Since 2007, the Les Estivales d'ArtenetrA festival has established itself as one of the major musical events in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Founded by Fabrice Gregorutti, composer, conductor, and artistic director, this festival was born from the desire to make classical music resonate within the ancient walls of the Royal Abbey of Celles-sur-Belle, a 17th-century architectural gem nestled in the heart of Haut Val de Sèvre.

ArtenetrA's artistic project goes beyond the simple framework of a summer festival. The association develops cultural activities throughout the year in the region, making music a vector for social connection and heritage enhancement. Concerts take place in the abbey as well as in several remarkable sites in the Deux-Sèvres, creating a true musical journey through the department.

An Exceptional Program Featuring Both Renowned Artists and Discoveries

Each edition of Les Estivales offers around twenty concerts featuring internationally acclaimed artists and promising young talents. Over the years, the festival has hosted musicians such as Anne Queffélec, Pierre-Laurent Aimard, Leontina Vaduva, and Yves Castagnet, titular organist of Notre-Dame de Paris. The program explores all facets of classical music: piano recitals, chamber music, symphonic concerts, organ recitals, and vocal music.

Masterclasses: Transmission and Excellence

An essential part of the festival, the masterclasses allow talented young musicians to work with renowned masters in the exceptional setting of the abbey. Anne Queffélec's piano masterclasses and Leontina Vaduva's singing classes have become highly sought-after events, attracting participants from all over Europe.

The Royal Abbey: A Remarkable Acoustic Setting

The Royal Abbey of Celles-sur-Belle, founded in the 11th century and rebuilt in the 17th century in a monumental classical style, offers exceptional natural acoustics for classical music concerts. The abbey church, the cloister, and the conventual rooms all serve as concert spaces with varied atmospheres, allowing for an intimate and immersive musical experience. This historical monument, one of the most beautiful monastic ensembles in Poitou, enhances every performance and creates a unique dialogue between architecture and music.

A Festival Rooted in its Territory

Located in a town of less than 4,000 inhabitants, the festival plays a vital role in the cultural and tourist animation of Haut Val de Sèvre and the Deux-Sèvres. It benefits from the support of the Department of Deux-Sèvres, the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region, and the municipality of Celles-sur-Belle, as well as private partners and a network of dedicated volunteers.