Royan Festival

The Royan Festival (or more fully in French the Festival international d'art contemporain de Royan) was held in Royan from 1964 to 1977. It was a multi-disciplinary annual event, bringing together:

Created in 1963 by Dr. Bernard Gachet, the festival was primarily focused on contemporary music. Its artistic director was Claude Samuel from 1964 to 1972 then Harry Halbreich from 1973 to 1977. The festival was held annually for one week around Easter. Soon, its musical production, the Festival de Royan became as famous as those of Donaueschingen and Venice.

The Olivier Messiaen international piano competition was part of the festival until 1971. In 1972, it was replaced by a flute competition.

The theme this year was the contemporary music of Eastern Europe.

It was also the year that created the international exhibition of photographic research (SIRP).

The edition was devoted mainly to the "younger generation".

That year, no fewer than 49 composers (including 15 born after 1940) are found in Royan, 18 different nationalities. Cent creations will be produced during a week.

1. Photographie.com: 30 years of SIRP [ archive ]

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