The “Ma region virtuoso” truck transports classical music to the Pays de la Loire

For the second year, a specially equipped semi-trailer is coming to meet the public from small towns in the region. On the program, free baroque music concerts to be enjoyed in small groups until January 28.

When a truck transforms into a classical music concert hall. This is the very original concept that the “My virtuoso region” festival offers until January 28, 2024. The traveling scene travels the rural areas of Pays de la Loire with twenty stops planned in the five departments.

That day, the semi-trailer parked in a village parking lot Accommodation in Vendée. As at each of his stops, he is impatiently awaited by music lovers. “The sound is extraordinary, it feels like you’re in a concert hall,” assures a spectator. “I love it! Whether it’s in a meadow, in a cathedral or in a truck”, rejoices another participant.

Inside this cramped room, the very cozy atmosphere of a baroque music room has been reproduced. Red curtain, wooden sets, small stage, the musicians of the Masques ensemble play their part close to the 40 spectators.

It’s the harpsichordist Olivier Fortin who had this crazy idea. “It’s a project that was born in 2020 during the Covid crisis, it’s a tool to meet people all over France”, he says. Alongside him, a violinist and a cellist perform works from the baroque repertoire.

User-friendly and free

After the concert, the musicians offer a moment of exchange with the public. The opportunity to discover how lesser-known musical instruments work, such as the harpsichord or the viola da gamba. “It allows you to learn about music and learn about the manufacturing techniques of old instruments, I hope my daughter will have learned a few points,” reports a spectator.

Three programs intended for all audiences are offered free of charge in the different villages that the truck passes through. We will hear French music with these great masters Marais and Forqueray, as well as detours through Italy with Corelli, and through Germany with Jean Sébastien Bach.

The “My virtuoso region” truck will continue its crazy tour in the five departments of Pays de la Loire. The last concert will take place in Chalonnes-sur-Loire (Maine-et-Loire) on Sunday January 28.

Entrance is free, but it is advisable to book on the websites of the participating villages.