Festival returns to Bordeaux

From November 17 to November 29, 2026, the L'Esprit du Piano festival will take place at the Auditorium of Bordeaux. The event will feature a diverse lineup of pianists, including both established and emerging artists, as well as jazz musicians.

Two-part structure since 2023

Launched in 2010, the festival has evolved since 2023 by splitting into two parts. In the spring, it focuses on new interpreters under the "Nouvelle Génération" series, while the autumn edition offers a broader program with internationally renowned artists and major jazz figures.

Notable performers in 2026

This year’s edition will feature two major piano personalities, Elisabeth Leonskaja and Arcadi Volodos, at the Auditorium of the Bordeaux Opera. Young artists Alexandra Dovgan and Arielle Beck will also perform, along with jazz musicians Tigran Hamasyan and Shai Maestro.

Opening performances and locations

The festival will open on November 17 with Elisabeth Leonskaja performing a program that includes works by Beethoven, Chostakovitch, and Schubert. On November 18 and 19, performances will move to the Church of Notre-Dame in Bordeaux, featuring Théo Degardin playing music by Brahms, Mozart, Liszt, and Chopin.

Continuing the program

On November 20, Alexandra Dovgan will perform a program that spans from Bach to Schubert and Chopin. Tigran Hamasyan will present Manifeste on November 21, and the festival will return on November 24 with Arcadi Volodos, who will focus on the works of Schubert and Chopin.

Additional performances and conclusion

Simon Bürki will perform at the Amphitheater of the University of Bordeaux Montaigne on November 25, exploring Rachmaninov’s music. Shai Maestro will bring jazz back on November 28, and the festival will conclude on November 29 with Arielle Beck, whose program includes works by Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Chopin, and Prokofiev.