Les concerts de poche Promoting classical music, jazz and opera in the same area

Music workshops

The philosophy of Les Concerts de Poche is clear: "no concerts without workshops, no workshops without concerts". Since pianist Gisèle Magnan created Les Concerts de Poche, leading classical, jazz and opera artists have been invited to work with people living in remote areas. The association has been recognized as being in the public interest and received the "La France s'engage" label in 2015. Participants in creative, interactive, improvisational workshops build a musical narrative illustrating the emotions stirred by music. Inspired by the participants’ imaginations, the artists use improvisational games to suggest bridges to the music, which is performed in a concert.  

Adapting to specific local characteristics and acting in the long term

Different areas have different needs. That is why Les Concerts de Poche devises tailor-made programs meeting local needs while performing an existing repertoire. In addition to the preparatory concert workshops, the association develops long-term participative projects to foster lasting social bonds within areas. Choral workshops have a very positive impact on the participants, contributing to higher self-esteem, integration in a group process and the pride of their loved ones. The foundation backs the development of the long-term workshops run by Les Concerts de Poche.

Developing a network of choirs in remote areas

The workshops allow new audiences to share the joy and fulfillment of choral singing. The experience they offer is intense enough to encourage the participants to practice choral singing on a regular basis. The foundation helps Les Concerts de Poche create Chorales de Poche (Pocket Choirs), independent amateur choirs whose members can pursue choral singing after the association’s long-term workshops are over. The Bettencourt Schueller Foundation wants to develop the unique experience of discovering this demanding but rewarding activity and sharing the stage with great artists, especially for people who are far from cultural venues, by developing long-term activities and creating the Chorales de poche.