Festival Dans les Jardins de William Christie

A music festival organised by the renowned musician William Christie, in the gardens of his home in Thiré. With musical walks, family workshops, concerts and candlelit meditations, come and discover Baroque music whilst admiring the great musician’s very personal gardens.

22–29 August: William Christie’s Garden Festival
Every summer since 2012, Les Arts Florissants and the Vendée Department have joined forces to present a truly unique event, combining the joy of music with the beauty of the gardens… in William Christie’s gardens. For one week, the public is invited to discover little-known works from the Baroque repertoire and a remarkable garden in the Vendée, as well as talented young artists at the start of their careers, whom the Festival showcases alongside Les Arts Florissants’ regular performers.

22 & 23 August – Rameau, Arias and Scenes
Kicking off the 2026 ‘Dans les Jardins de William Christie’ Festival, this concert celebrates Jean-Philippe Rameau through a selection of his greatest operas. Performed by the Les Arts Florissants Choir and Orchestra, it brings to life all the richness and splendour of the French Baroque. A festival opening that is as festive as it is spectacular.

23 & 25 August – Les demoiselles Lalande
To open the festival’s candlelit concerts, Les Arts Florissants pay tribute to Michel-Richard de Lalande, a master of French sacred music. Performed by sopranos Sarah Fleiss and Juliette Perret, this programme highlights all the finesse and emotion of the short motet. A moment of musical intimacy by candlelight.

26 August – L’harmonie des nations
The musicians of Les Arts Florissants and students from the Juilliard School in New York come together for a journey to the heart of the European Baroque. From Lully to Corelli and Muffat, this programme celebrates the dialogue between French, Italian and German traditions. A unique musical encounter, conducted by Robert Mealy.

27 & 28 August – Rameau’s Violin
Following the success of its premiere in 2024, Rameau’s Violin brings together William Christie and Théotime Langlois de Swarte for a journey into the heart of the composer’s world. Featuring opera arias, dance suites and sonatas, this programme highlights the refined interplay between the violin and the harpsichord.

28 & 29 August – Purcell in the pub
To bring the festival to a close, Les Arts Florissants celebrate the sparkling world of Henry Purcell through a selection of arias and incidental music. Staged by Paul Agnew and performed by three winners of the Jardin des Voix competition, this show blends virtuosity, humour and emotion. A festive and dazzling finale to this 15th edition.

Afternoons in the Gardens
22–29 August – Afternoons in the Gardens
Every afternoon during William Christie’s Dans les Jardins Festival, the artists of Les Arts Florissants invite you to join them in the idyllic setting of the William Christie Gardens and the Artists’ Quarter, for a unique experience combining the beauty of nature with the joys of music!

• Types : festival

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Visits languages

• French
• English

Free

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