West Sussex Music and Lisieux Conservatoire, May 2024
In May 2024, West Sussex Music embarked on a three-night tour of the Pays d’Auge region in Normandy, blending musical performances with cultural exchange and historical exploration. This tour, from the 27th to the 30th of May, was a rich experience for the young musicians, providing them with opportunities to perform in stunning venues, collaborate with French students, and immerse themselves in the historical ambiance of Normandy.
The tour commenced on the 27th of May, with an early morning departure from West Sussex Music’s headquarters in Horsham. After a short coach ride to Newhaven, the group crossed the English Channel by ferry, arriving in Dieppe later that afternoon. The journey continued to their accommodation at Domaine De Soignolles, where the group was warmly welcomed with a presentation and a tour of the facilities. The evening ended with a group dinner, setting the stage for the musical and cultural experiences to come.
On the 28th of May, the students began their day with rehearsals at the Basilica of Saint Thérèse in Lisieux, one of the most significant religious sites in France. The morning was dedicated to preparing for their performance during the afternoon Mass, held in the basilica’s stunning crypt. The choir’s performance, integrated into the service, was a profound experience, allowing the students to contribute to the spiritual atmosphere of this magnificent venue.
After the performance, the group explored the main basilica, taking advantage of the opportunity to sing acapella within its vast, resonant space. The day continued with further rehearsals at the Lisieux Conservatoire, where the West Sussex Music choir joined forces with local French choirs to prepare for their upcoming collaborative concert.
The evening concluded with a group dinner at Le Patio restaurant in central Lisieux, before returning to their accommodation to rest and reflect on the day’s achievements.
The 29th of May was filled with both cultural exploration and musical collaboration. The day began with a visit to the picturesque town of Honfleur, known for its historic port and vibrant art scene. The students had time to explore the town, taking in its unique charm before heading back to Lisieux.
In the afternoon, the group traveled to Château Canon in Mézidon-Canon, where they participated in joint rehearsals with French students in preparation for the evening’s concert. The beautiful surroundings of the chateau provided an inspiring setting for these rehearsals, allowing the students to connect and collaborate with their French peers.
The day culminated in a grand concert at Château Canon, featuring performances by both the West Sussex Music choir and the French ensemble. The event was a celebration of cross-cultural collaboration, with a post-concert reception hosted by the families of the French students, further fostering the bonds of friendship and musical partnership.
The final day, the 30th of May, began with a morning drive to the historic city of Rouen. Here, the students had free time to explore the city’s rich history, including visits to its famous Gothic cathedral and medieval streets. This exploration offered a deeper understanding of Normandy’s historical significance, complementing the musical experiences of the previous days.
In the afternoon, the group traveled to Dieppe for the ferry crossing back to Newhaven, concluding their Normandy adventure with a return to Horsham in the evening.
