General French News | Jazz it up in Brittany

Monday, 26th, September by Katharine Barrau

Things we know about Brittany: it’s got great beaches and a fine maritime tradition; you can get a lovely bol of cider with most meals; its crêpes are second to none; and its mystical forests hide many a riveting legend and myth.

But perhaps less known is its musical heritage, which manifests itself in countless festivals (such as the famous rock festival (Vieilles Charrues) and concerts all year round.

Another good example – and a fine reason to head to Brittany for your French holidays in the quieter autumn off-season – is the upcoming Atlantique Jazz Festival based in Brest (with a big marquee in the city’s Jardin Kennedy playing host to five days worth of concerts).

Gigs will also take place in Finistère’s surrounding towns and villages, such as Carhaix, Châteaulin, Crozon, Douarnenez, Guidel, Landerneau, Langonnet, Lorient, Pont-l’Abbé, Plougastel-Daoulas, Plougonvelin and Rosporden.

Now in its eighth year, the festival will take place from the 1st to 23rd October with performances from jazzers including Jacky Terrasson, Christofer Bjurström Quartet,Eténèsh Wassié and Mathieu Sourisseau.

All styles and eras of the genre will be covered, from traditional to more experimental sounds. The festival also offers the opportunity to discover other styles of music, such as Vietnamese, Sardinian, African or even Yiddish.

For a full list of performers, head here

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