Guernsey’s unique and charming character, drawn from the French and English influences that shape this Channel Island, provides the backdrop to the 5th Victor Hugo International Music Festival to be held 20 – 25 September 2010.  The festival takes the name of its best known resident of all time for it was in Guernsey that Victor Hugo found respite from his political foes for 15 years.

The festival includes such international musicians as tenor John Mark Ainsley, the award winning Ebène String Quartet, baroque violinist Nadja Zwiener, the Nash Ensemble and the David Le Page Trio explore the life and work of Mervyn Peake.  Pianist Lucy Parham will be joined by well known actors Martin Jarvis and Joanna David in a dramatic presentation of classical music’s most romantic love story between Robert and Clara Schumann.  Val Wiseman and the Brian Dee Quartet conclude the literary theme with a musical tribute to the lives and passions of the Brontës.

Lunchtime concerts throughout the week will include Thierry Escaich, the brilliant French composer and organist renowned for his improvisation.   A particular feature of the festival is the Brian Kay Interview in which the owner of this well loved voice of BBC radio helps us toward a better understanding of music and musician.

At the heart of the festival will be the premiere performance of songs based on Hugo’s poetry commissioned from Thierry Escaich and given by John Mark Ainsley and Roger Vignoles.

Look out for special offers on tickets when booking.

How to get to Guernsey
Follow our links to all major carriers or for a complete package follow the link to CI Travel.

The organisers of the Victor Hugo International Music Festival are delighted to acknowledge grant aid from the Guernsey Arts Commission.