Candlelit concerts in unusual locations are a hit in Lyon

This is another way to listen to music: candlelight concerts. Mixing Vivaldi, K-Pop and film music, the concept appeals to a wide audience. The special thing: they are always organized in unusual places.

Since 2019, Candlelight concerts have been a hit. From connoisseurs to novices, these performances with their diverse repertoires appeal to a wide audience. Imagine listening to Mozart by the light of thousands of candles at the Eiffel Tower, K-Pop in a castle or French variety in the crypt of a cathedral.

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière hosted this unusual experience. The goal: to reinterpret French variety into classical music, on the piano. The notes were so captivating that they could almost let Jean-Jacques Goldman’s voice be heard superimposed on the melody.

To prepare for this evening, 3,000 candles had been set up. With their eyes closed or fixed on the pianist’s fingers, barely lit by the candles, the 500 spectators were transported by the music.

More than just a concert, pianist and composer Sydney Poma did not hesitate to grab the microphone to share with the audience. “It’s important to explain to them where I’m taking them, to show them anecdotes and things they don’t know,” she says. This direct sharing creates a unique connection between the artist and his audience, making each performance memorable.

Candlelight concerts were born in Spain in 2019. The initial idea is to democratize classical music in atypical places. Promoted mainly on social networks, the phenomenon is gaining momentum and appeals to all generations.

The secret? Léa Fesard, head of Candlelight concerts in French-speaking Europe, knows how to explain it: “We have expanded to a more eclectic programme, with a pop/rock repertoire in particular, we seek to surprise our spectators. From the moment the venue has an important place in the cultural heritage of the city, the acoustics lend themselves to it and we can be plunged into darkness: these are the criteria for a successful experience.“This approach allows us to renew interest in classical music while attracting new audiences through varied programming.

After Paris, Lyon is the second city. But these immersive concerts are organized all over France. For around twenty euros, you can book your musical experience here.