12 Concerts You Shouldn’t Miss at Lille Piano(s) Festival

For over 20 years, the Orchestre National de Lille has been organizing and programming the Lille Piano(s) Festival. The 2025 edition is running on June 13-15 and here are 12 gigs you cannot miss.

1. Celebrate 150 Years of Maurice Ravel’s Complete Works for Piano

A legendary French composer who deeply influenced generations of musicians and music lovers, both in France and abroad, Ravel’s style—combining impressionist colours, modernism, and influences from jazz and Spanish music—is uniquely inimitable. 

Often regarded as the embodiment of French classical music, his legacy remains undeniable. His complex relationship with French authorities, contrasted with his deep patriotism, also contributed to his universal recognition. Today, his work is rightly seen as a musical treasure of France, representing the elegance and innovation of 20th-century French music. Pianist Bertrand Chamayou will pay tribute to him with a complete performance of his piano works over two concerts at the Conservatoire de Lille. 

2. A Must-See Requiem by Fauré

For Gabriel Fauré’s 180th anniversary, the festival presents a unique interpretation of his famous Requiem in an emblematic venue: Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral with its grand organ. Conducted by Matthieu Romano, featuring the Chœur Septentrion and organist Olivier Périn. 

3. Tribute to Pierre Boulez

A giant of 20th- and 21st-century French music, Pierre Boulez was a pioneer of modernity and avant-garde composition, as well as the founder of IRCAM – the French institute dedicated to the research of music and sound. Born 100 years ago, his works remain underappreciated, often perceived as demanding. Pianist Florent Boffard will present a recital highlighting the richness and depth of Boulez’s music. 

4. Three Symphonic Orchestras Unite at the Théâtre du Casino Barrière

• Opening concert conducted by Jean-Claude Casadesus, founder of the Orchestre National de Lille, featuring Tchaikovsky’s famous Piano Concerto, performed by Uzbek pianist Bezhod Abduraimov. 

• Orchestre de Picardie: Pianist Florian Noack performing Shostakovich and Schumann. 

• Antwerp Symphony Orchestra: Featuring the First Prize Winner of the 2025 Queen Elisabeth Competition, performing Brahms, Dvořák, and his Slavic Dances. 

5. Jazz Takes the Spotlight

With the participation of Jazz en Nord, Tourcoing Jazz, Lille3000, and L’Aéronef, jazz is an integral part of the festival. Some of the artists to look forward to: 

• Bojan Z & Pierre de Bethmann on Fender Rhodes 

• Baptiste Trotignon & Eric Legnini on pianos 

• Mark Priore Trio (2024 Victoires du Jazz revelation) 

• Luca Sestak Trio, Francesca Tandoi, Dave Bristow, Matsutake, Dock in Absolute, Daïda… 

6. A Timeless Show: The Little Prince

Rediscover Saint-Exupéry’s universal masterpiece, adapted from Joann Sfar’s graphic novel, with music by Marc-Olivier Dupin—a magical experience for all ages! 

7. Free Disco Afters

A fun and vintage project dedicated to 1980s music—disco vibes guaranteed! Two free after-parties take place on Friday and Saturday. 

8. A Journey Through World Music 

Experience the captivating Amin Al Aiedy Quartet, blending Persian influences at Gare Saint Sauveur and discover Celtic harp music with Trio Ostara at the Charles de Gaulle Birthplace Museum. 

9. Classical Accordion

Modest Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition became famous through Maurice Ravel’s orchestration. But this time, experience it in a brand-new way—on the accordion, performed by Bogdan Nesterenko at the Centre d’Art Sacré. 

10. The Grand Organ at Notre-Dame de la Treille 

Experience Pictures at an Exhibition on the majestic organ of Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral, played by Ghislain Leroy, the cathedral’s principal organist. 

11. Free Electronic Music at Gare Saint Sauveur 

Modern music meets classical at Lille Piano(s) Festival with free electronic sets by Damien Fleau and Photons, held at Gare Saint Sauveur and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 

12. Boogie Woogie Makes Its Debut! 

For the first time ever, boogie-woogie takes center stage with Hungarian virtuoso Cili Marsall and her trio! 

Booking and informations www.lillepianosfestival.fr 

Lead photo credit : Orchestre National de Lille © Ugo Ponte