Les Nouvelles Traversées - Rencontres Musicales de Noirlac

A festival in a Cistercian setting

For over 30 years, Les Nouvelles Traversées - Rencontres Musicales de Noirlac have transformed the Abbaye de Noirlac into a major music venue. This 12th-century Cistercian abbey, located in Bruère-Allichamps in the Cher region, is one of the best-preserved monastic ensembles in France. Its pure architecture and exceptional acoustics provide an ideal setting for concerts.

An eclectic and demanding program

The festival offers a program that spans eras and styles: from baroque to jazz, from the Middle Ages to the present day, from Breton songs to the music of Constantinople. This diversity is the festival's signature, inviting discovery and musical journeys. The program favors voice and soundscapes, with particular attention paid to creations and artist encounters.

Festive Fridays and contemplative Saturdays

The festival is structured around two atmospheres. Friday evenings celebrate traditional music in a festive and convivial atmosphere, with artists such as Leïla Martial or Rodolphe Burger. Saturdays offer three concerts exploring the voice, with ensembles like the Estonian choir Vox Clamantis, the ensemble Irini, the Chanteurs d'oiseaux, or the Chemirani family.

Two weeks of music in June-July

Les Nouvelles Traversées take place over two weeks, generally from June 21 to July 5. The festival offers eleven concerts bringing together several generations of talented musicians. This duration helps create a true community of loyal spectators and fosters encounters between artists and the public.

Artistic and territorial commitment

The festival is supported by the Abbaye de Noirlac, a Cultural Encounter Center managed by the Departmental Council of Cher. It is part of an initiative to promote heritage through artistic creation and contributes to the cultural influence of the Berry region. The festival also hosts artists in residence and offers cultural mediation activities.