From the “classics” of contemporary music to newly composed pieces, the 8th Moissons d’Atmusica festival invites audiences to explore captivating soundscapes.
For a long time, Atmusica has been a vibrant hub for contemporary music in Tours. “During Atmusica concerts, explains Anne Aubert, the artistic director of the Ensemble, we aim to provide what YouTube cannot: live emotion.”
Immerse in New Emotions
An Atmusica concert is not just an experience; it is a chance to witness the enchanting magic of sound—sometimes unusual, disconcerting, or wondrous—that emerges spontaneously from silence and unique musical gestures.
With the 8th Moissons festival, both enthusiasts and curious newcomers will have the opportunity to gather new emotions that can only be found in live performances. “Ultimately, with contemporary music, it resembles the past when recordings didn’t exist: to hear it, you have to be there,” adds Anne Aubert playfully.
Three Days of Discovery in the Ockeghem Room
On Thursday, September 26, 2024, non-classical works for soloists and trios will be presented, highlighting the harp alongside the viola and flute. At 7 p.m., the program will feature two Sequences by Berio for harp and flute, Signs, Games and Messages for alto by Kurtag, Offering by Michael Jarrell, and Automate III, composed in 2023 by Anne Castex for harp, which will be prepared for public presentation. At 8:30 p.m., the flute, viola, and harp will perform the sonata by Debussy from 1915, alongside works by Donatoni, Kaija Saariaho, Durieux, and Johannes Maria Staud.
On Friday, September 27, at 8 p.m., Mathilde Barthélémy’s voice will merge with clarinet, cello, guitar, and percussion to recreate sound universes in compositions by a diverse range of musicians, including François-Bernard Mâche, Jérôme Combier, Aida Shirazi, Jacob Druckman, Toshio Hosokawa, and Ivan Fedele.
On Saturday, September 28, at 8 p.m.: similar to Thursday, there will be remarkable solos and trios for accordion, violin, and cello, featuring works by Matteo Franceschini (2022), Bernard Cavanna, Édith Canat de Chizy, Philippe Leroux, Frédéric Durieux, and Henri Dutilleux (Three Stanzas on the Name of Sacher for cello), followed by Philippe Hersant’s tribute to this composer with the Stanzas for accordion and cello.
From September 26 to 28 at Ockeghem Hall, Place de Châteauneuf, Tours. Prices: €15, €8; Three-evening pass: €40, PCE: one ticket purchased for €8 = one ticket free. Reservations: 07.83.94.35.10.
Embrace New Sounds at the 8th Moissons d’Atmusica Festival
From the “classics” of contemporary music to newly composed works, the 8th Moissons d’Atmusica festival is an invitation to discover fascinating sound worlds. With Atmusica, contemporary music has had a place to live, a vibrant venue in Tours, for a significant period. “In Atmusica concerts,” explains Anne Aubert, the artistic director of the ensemble, “we are trying to give something that YouTube does not give—live emotion.”
Fill Up on New Emotions
An Atmusica concert is a space to marvel at the magic of sound—sometimes strange, disconcerting, or marvelous—that blossoms from silence through unique musical gestures. Attendees can expect to stockpile new emotions that only live performances can provide. “Ultimately, with contemporary music, it’s like in the past, when recordings didn’t exist: to hear it, you have to go somewhere,” adds Aubert.
Three Days of Discovery in the Ockeghem Room
The festival runs from September 26 to 28, 2024, with exciting performances scheduled in the lovely Ockeghem Hall, located at Place de Châteauneuf, Tours. Below is a detailed overview of the event schedule:
| Date | Time | Performance Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, September 26 | 7:00 PM | Solo and trio works featuring harp, viola, and flute including Berio’s Sequence. |
| 8:30 PM | Performances of Debussy and contemporary works by Donatoni, Saariaho, and more. | |
| Friday, September 27 | 8:00 PM | Fusion of Mathilde Barthélémy’s voice with various instruments, featuring creations by Mâche and Shirazi. |
| Saturday, September 28 | 8:00 PM | Solo and trio performances for accordion, violin, and cello with works from Franceschini, Dutilleux, and Hersant. |
Ticket Information
Pricing:
- Single Evening Ticket: €15
- Concessions: €8
- Three-Evening Pass: €40
- Special Offer: Buy one ticket for €8 and receive a second ticket free.
For reservations, please contact 07.83.94.35.10.
Why Attend the Moissons d’Atmusica Festival?
The Moissons d’Atmusica festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the richness of contemporary music. Here are some benefits of attending:
- Live Experience: Feel the rush of music performed live, bringing emotion that recordings simply cannot replicate.
- Diverse Genres: Experience a wide array of new compositions as well as classical pieces through a contemporary lens.
- Networking: Connect with other music enthusiasts, artists, and composers who share a passion for contemporary soundscapes.
First-Hand Experiences from Past Festivals
Many participants and attendees have shared transformative experiences from previous Moissons d’Atmusica festivals. For instance, one attendee noted:
“The atmosphere is electric. The way musicians interact with the audience makes each performance unique. It’s not just a concert; it’s a shared experience.”
Another musician commented:
“Performing at Atmusica is extraordinary. The intimate setting allows for a deep connection with the listeners, and the reaction can completely change the performance.”
Preparing for the Festival
For a fulfilling experience at the festival, consider these practical tips:
- Arrive Early: Get a good seat and enjoy the ambiance before the show starts.
- Engage with the Program: Familiarize yourself with the performing works and composers to enhance your appreciation.
- Interact with Artists: Many musicians may be available to chat before or after their performances, offering insights into their works.
The Future of Contemporary Music
Contemporary music continues to evolve, and festivals like Moissons d’Atmusica play a vital role in shaping this landscape. They not only promote modern compositions but also inspire both seasoned and emerging artists to explore new musical realms. By participating in such events, audiences contribute to the culture of innovation in the music industry.