Musical Recreations

Medieval and Modern Concert

This event offers a journey of a thousand years, from Gregorian chant of the 11th century to the contemporary music of Norman composers, tracing the footsteps of William the Conqueror.
The music of the 11th century, which constitutes its sound universe, marks a pivotal period in European history, with the transition from neumatic notation to musical staff. The singing, vielle, and flute of the ensemble "À la Traverseinne," played on instruments reconstructed from medieval iconography, interact with the contemporary works performed by the ensemble "Intibaa’."
The two formations 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 for the perception of both the contrasts and resonances between these repertoires.

Medieval Musical Recreations
In the Middle Ages, a school of singing was developed by Guillaume de Volpiano (1001-1028) and his disciple Jean de Ravenne (1028-1079), who were also connected to 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 singing.
The Songs of Consolation, among the most widely distributed works of the Middle Ages, are inspired by 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 feed contemporary writings, blending tradition and modernity. André Caplet, Albert Roussel, Anthony Girard, Dominique Lemaître, and David Defillon extend this heritage in works marked by modal richness and a strong expressive dimension.

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

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