About Musicales Guil Durance

The Musicales Guil Durance is the first classical music festival in the Guillestrois region, founded in 1991 by the association Arts et Musiques en Montagne. Every summer, from late July to early August, the Salle Basse de l'Arsenal in the Mont-Dauphin fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, hosts about ten concerts of classical, baroque, jazz, and chamber music. International and regional artists perform in an exceptional heritage setting.

Classical music in a Vauban setting

Created in 1991 by the association Arts et Musiques en Montagne (AMM), the Musicales Guil Durance is the oldest music festival in the Guillestrois. Every summer, the Salle Basse de l'Arsenal of the Mont-Dauphin fortress — a fortification designed by Vauban and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list — transforms into a concert hall to host about ten high-quality musical events.

A rich and eclectic program

The Musicales Guil Durance program covers a wide repertoire: baroque music on harpsichord, classical music for string quartet or piano, guitar or piano recitals, chamber music, choral singing, and jazz. The 34th edition in 2025 notably featured a piano recital by Vanessa Wagner (J.-S. Bach and Philip Glass), the Quatuor Debussy with mezzo-soprano Ariana Vafadari (Purcell, Vivaldi, Handel), and a classical-jazz fusion with cellist François Salques and accordionist Vincent Peirani. Some concerts also take place at the Guillestre church.

Internationally renowned artists

For over thirty years, the Musicales Guil Durance has welcomed leading musicians from around the world to perform in the unique setting of Mont-Dauphin. Internationally renowned soloists, ensembles, and quartets share the stage with regional musicians, creating bridges between repertoires and generations. The acoustic quality of the Salle Basse de l'Arsenal, combined with the historical charm of the citadel, offers an exceptional musical experience.

A commitment to music in the mountains

The association Arts et Musiques en Montagne has been organizing the festival since its creation and advocates for access to classical music in mountain regions. The affordable prices — full price €22, reduced price €10, AMM members €17, free for under 12s — reflect this desire to make music accessible to as many people as possible. 3-concert passes (€55) and 7-concert passes (€100) facilitate access for the most dedicated music lovers.