Les Nuits Pianistiques

A piano festival and music academy

The Nuits Pianistiques are a unique musical event in Aix-en-Provence, combining a high-level concert festival and an international music academy. Created in 1993 by the French pianist Michel Bourdoncle, who is also the artistic director, the Nuits Pianistiques take place every summer for two weeks, from late July to early August, at the Auditorium Campra of the Conservatoire Darius Milhaud.

Recital and chamber music concerts

The festival's program features a series of piano recitals, chamber music concerts, and symphonic evenings that showcase both established artists and young talents from the academy. The repertoire covers a wide spectrum, from classical to romantic, from Spanish music to French composers, with a significant place given to the works of Chopin, Liszt, Grieg, Albéniz, Granados, and Scarlatti. Concerts are held in the evening, usually at 7:30 PM, in the warm acoustics of the Auditorium Campra.

The Academy: training and transmission

The Nuits Pianistiques Academy is an essential part of the festival. During two training sessions, young pianists from around the world benefit from masterclasses given by internationally renowned professors. The academy celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2025, confirming its role in training the new generation of pianists. Trainees have the opportunity to perform in concert as part of the festival, creating a bridge between training and the professional stage.

An accessible event in the heart of Aix-en-Provence

Les Nuits Pianistiques stands out for its accessible pricing policy, with tickets at 20 euros for full price, 10 euros for reduced price (students, job seekers), and free admission for conservatory students and children under 15. This commitment to democratizing classical music echoes the festival's educational mission. The setting of the Conservatoire Darius Milhaud, located on Avenue Mozart in the southern district of Aix, offers an intimate environment conducive to listening, away from the summer bustle of the city center.