Les Heures Musicales de l'Abbaye de Lessay

Les Heures Musicales de Lessay: Classical Music in a Romanesque Gem

Since 1994, the Heures Musicales de l'Abbaye de Lessay has offered an exceptional musical event in the heart of the Norman summer. Founded by Edme Jeanson, following the disappearance of the Heures Musicales du Mont-Saint-Michel, the festival has successfully created a major new musical event in the Manche region, driven by the 'Les Amis de l'Abbaye' association, of which Michel Pinel was then vice-president.

The Sainte-Trinité Abbey Church: An Exceptional Acoustic Setting

The Sainte-Trinité Abbey Church of Lessay, founded in 1056 by the barons of La Haye-du-Puits, is considered the finest example of Norman Romanesque architecture still preserved. A pioneer in the use of the ribbed vault, this church offers remarkable natural acoustics that enhance musical performances. Its sober and majestic architecture creates an atmosphere conducive to listening and musical contemplation.

An Excellent Program

Between mid-July and mid-August, the festival offers eight major concerts on Tuesday and Friday evenings in the abbey church. The program highlights baroque, classical, and chamber music, with internationally renowned ensembles and soloists. The repertoires explored cover several centuries of music, from the Renaissance to contemporary, with a preference for baroque music.

Les Prim'Heures: A Festival within a Festival

In addition to the major concerts, the festival offers Les Prim'Heures, 45-minute concerts scheduled every evening at the Grange à dîme. These events are an opportunity to discover young talents in an intimate and warm setting, offering a showcase for emerging artists on the classical scene.

Le Poème Harmonique: An Ensemble in Residence

The ensemble Le Poème Harmonique, an internationally renowned baroque ensemble based in Normandy, is in residence for three years at the festival. Guest of honor for the 2025 edition, the ensemble also returns each winter for two performances at the Espace culturel de Lessay, one for schools and the other open to the public.

A Winter Event

Recently, the Heures Musicales also offers a winter event in January, at the Espace culturel de Lessay, thus extending the musical season beyond the summer and allowing the public to rediscover the spirit of the festival throughout the year.