Nestled in the heart of Bayeux, this large Norman-Romanesque Cathedral dates back to the 11th Century. It is famous as the original home of the Bayeux Tapestry, a massive embroidered cloth depicting the events leading up to the Norman conquest of England. Many legends surround the tapestry, but the majestic architecture of Bayeux Cathedral tells a story of its own. It is a wonder that one of the oldest cathedrals in France somehow escaped World War II without much damage. Performing in Bayeux Cathedral lit up at night is a truly magical moment for your music tour.
This gothic-style Roman Rite Catholic cathedral was built between 1194-1250 and is the last cathedral to have occupied the grounds since the 4th century. The church's almost perfect preservation is astounding; it still holds most of the original stained glass windows and its architecture has gone almost unscathed since the 13th century. Dominating the cathedrals exterior are its flying buttresses, large windows, and beautiful spires.
This sprawling creation commissioned by Francois I, towering over its deer-filled park, is one of the most recognized châteaux in the world. Featured in the building are works from collections of the Louvre and Compiegne, admired by nearly a million visitors each year. With guaranteed audiences any day, this is a top performance spot in the Loire Valley
Built in 1868, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Nice is the largest church in the city. The church was built in a Gothic French style and was designed to French the city after it was annexed from Italy in 1860. The east facing façade is dominated by a huge Rose window, depicting the Assumption of Mary. It is a beautiful venue and would be the perfect venue for a choral ensemble.
Honoring nearly 10,000 American soldiers who died in Europe during World War II, this site is a historical landmark in memory of the 1944 invasion of Normandy. This cemetery and memorial is located near Omaha Beach and the English Channel close to the Normandy landings. With the US flag flying proudly, visitors can attend the flag lowering ceremony which occurs twice each day. Performances here are sure to be emotional and inspiring.
The Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, founded in the 6th Century, stands on the left bank of the Seine. The church was once part of a huge Abbey. Unfortunately, the main body of the Abbey was destroyed when their supply of saltpeter, used to preserve their food but also a constituent of gun powder, exploded and leveled the Abbey to the ground. Now only the church remains. It is an amazing venue, rich in history and a wonderful setting for any performance.
The Église de Saint-Sèverin, one of the oldest churches on the left bank, was completed in 1520. Situated in the heart of the Latin Quarter it is a fine example of Gothic Architecture. The interior boasts a forest of columns and the 16th century architecture is complimented by the addition of some very modern impressionistic stain glass windows. The church is also home to one of the oldest bells in France, cast in 1412, it's still ringing at the ripe old age of 601! St. Sèverin is a stunning venue the perfect place for an atmospheric ensemble.
The Church of St. Sulpice, built in the seventeenth century, is the second largest church in Paris. An important Roman Catholic church, it is home to a very impressive Gnomon, an astronomical measurement device which was installed so the bells could be rung at exactly the most appropriate time of day. The church is famous for its Great Organ, revered as the most impressive instrument of the romantic French Symphonic Organ Era. There have been a few modernizations over the years but overall it is nearly exactly the same as when Aristide Cavaillè-Coll reconstructed it in 1862. This is a beautiful venue with lots of atmosphere and a special appeal to any organ enthusiast.
La Madeleine is a prestigious performance venue in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. This Roman Catholic church was built in true Neo-Classical style inspired by the Roman temple Maison Carrée with over fifty columns carrying the building. The church's pipe organ was built in 1845, restored in 1927 and the organist position has been held by major organists/composers, Saint-Saëns and Fauré to name a few! We hope your group can be one of the select ensembles to have the opportunity to perform here!
Located between the center of Nice and the hilly district of Cimiez, Chateau de Valrose is at present home to the University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis. The Castle and the adjoining domain have been, in fact, the headquarters of this institution since 1965. The entire complex (which consists of the castle as such, the park and a smaller neighboring castle) was declared a historical monument 1991. The castle features a spectacular concert hall that can accommodate up to 400 spectators provided with an imposing wood machinery visible in the backdrop.
The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière was built in 1872 and consecrated in 1896. The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is listed as a historical monument, registered to the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, considered as the emblem of the city of Lyon, the basilica welcomes over 2.5 million pilgrims and visitors each year. With more than 700 seats and a stage large enough to hold about fifty singers and musicians, the crypt of the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourviere is a perfect venue for a concert.
Fully equipped with high-tech light and sound equipment, this modern, 300-seat theatre hosts a variety of operas, concerts and plays year-round.
Choir Trips
Orchestra Trips
Band Trips
Festivals
Other Performance Trips
Music & Theatre Appreciation Trips