Hiver musical de Saint-Leu-la-Fôret

Founded in 2003 by volunteer musicians and music lovers from Saint-Leu-la-Forêt, near Paris, the Hiver Musical festival presents seasons of classical and world music concerts paired with exhibitions, workshops and talks built around an annual theme. Artistic direction comes from noted musicians, including violinist Christophe Giovaninetti, co-founder of the Ysaÿe and Elysée quartets, and flutist Sébastien Marq, a soloist with Les Arts Florissants. The festival now extends into the neighboring towns of Saint-Prix and Bessancourt and keeps ticket prices accessible to build a loyal, broad audience, with an education strand aimed at schoolchildren.