Musical Recreations

Medieval and Modern Concert

These performances offer a journey of a thousand years, from Gregorian chant of the 11th century to contemporary music by Norman composers, following in the footsteps of William the Conqueror.
The music of the 11th century, which constitutes its sound universe, marks a turning point in European history, with the transition from neumatic notation to musical notation. The singing, vielle, and flute of the ensemble "À la Traverseinne," performed on instruments reconstructed based on medieval iconography, engage in dialogue with contemporary works interpreted by the ensemble "Intibaa’."
Both groups come together around a creation by David Defillon, inspired by a melody from the Songs of Consolation, offering a musical journey enriched by theatrical mediation. This dialogue allows one to perceive both the contrasts and resonances between these repertoires.

Medieval Musical Recreations
In the Middle Ages, a school of singing is developed by Guillaume de Volpiano (1001-1028) and his disciple Jean de Ravenne (1028-1079), also associated with major abbeys such as Jumièges, Saint-Ouen de Rouen, Bernay, or Mont-Saint-Michel. Volpiano is recognized for his talent in renewing the modulations of psalmic chant.
The Songs of Consolation, among the most widely disseminated works of the Middle Ages, draw inspiration from an 11th-century manuscript rediscovered after 142 years. Their reconstruction from neumes is the result of the work of Sam Barrett and Benjamin Bagby.
The program also evokes Hildegarde of Bingen, a major figure of the 12th century, as well as Richard the Lionheart, whose two songs are performed.

Modern Musical Recreations
In the 20th century, several composers draw inspiration from Gregorian chant to nourish contemporary writing, blending tradition and modernity. André Caplet, Albert Roussel, Anthony Girard, Dominique Lemaître, and David Defillon thus extend this heritage in works marked by modal richness and a strong expressive dimension.

Practical Information:
All audiences
Duration: 1h
Admission: €20

Cooperation France / United Kingdom
Partnerships: DFDS Ferry Dieppe-New Haven, National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Medieval Music Festival in Essonne, TraVerse-DIEPPE Workshop, Tiers Temps-ROUEN Residence, Association of Descendants of William the Conqueror, Rouen Center Parish (Catholic Rouen), Saint John Paul II-DIEPPE Parish