Centenary of the composer Jacques Castérède (1926 - 2014)

Step into a world where timeless classical compositions collide with striking contemporary works. The city's top music conservatory students are teaming up to deliver powerful orchestral performances that promise to capture your imagination.

Celebrate the centenary of composer Jacques Castérède at the Conservatoire à rayonnement régional de Boulogne-Billancourt from November 17 to 20, 2026. This tribute features a diverse series of performances and workshops highlighting his works alongside those of Maurice Duruflé and Fabien Waksman. Open to attendees aged 12 and up, all events are free of charge. From large-scale wind orchestra arrangements to intimate chamber music, the program showcases the talents of conservatory students. It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of classical and contemporary composition across four distinct sessions held at the conservatories in Paris and Boulogne-Billancourt.

The tribute begins on Tuesday, November 17 at 18:30 at the Auditorium Marcel Landowski, followed by a concert on Thursday, November 19 at 19:00 at the CRR of Boulogne-Billancourt. These performances feature Castérède’s Music for an Imaginary Ballet, Duruflé’s Three Dances, and Waksman’s Burn the Witch, conducted by Philippe Ferro alongside student conductors Célestin Loubrieu and Théotime Dijoux.

On Friday, November 20, the venue shifts to the Salle Gabriel Fauré. A contemporary workshop takes place from 14:00 to 17:00, followed by a final concert at 18:00 showcasing vocal, instrumental, and chamber music classes. This final session highlights smaller-scale works by Castérède, including tributes to Pink Floyd and Thelonious Monk, his sonatina for trombone and piano, and settings of poetry by Robert Desnos and Alain Suied.

All events are free to attend for anyone aged 12 and older, offering a comprehensive look at the legacy of Castérède through the expertise of both professional faculty and student performers.