Académie-Festival des Arcs 2026

Annual theme: "Passerelle : classique et jazz en résonance" (Bridge: classical music and jazz in resonance)

For its 53rd edition, the Académie-Festival des Arcs will offer a dialogue between two musical repertoires that continually inspire and echo each other, classical music and jazz. From the swing of Gershwin’s concertos, Bernstein’s sophisticated writing, to improvisation and modern interpretations of Mozart and Bach, we will explore these two realms through a rich program of concerts and other musical events.

Loyal to its mission of supporting and promoting the music of today, the Académie-Festival des Arcs will welcome vibraphonist and composer Franck Tortiller for a two weeks residency. Leading figure of jazz in France, whose musical aesthetic lies at the crossroads of classical and jazz music, the composer perfectly embodies the annual theme. In addition to the world premiere of a new work commissioned by the Festival, more than ten of his compositions will also be performed during the festival, allowing us to delve into his musical universe — one that seamlessly blends sophisticated writing and improvisation.

Key elements of this edition:- More than 50 free concerts in the ski resort Les Arcs and nearby villages- An opening night with the famous opera "The barber of Seville"- West Side Story by the drum ensemble Percussions Claviers de Lyon- Concerts dedicated to jazz music- Young audience concerts- A cycle of concerts dedicated to French romantic music in collaboration with Fondation Bru Zane- Film screenings in partnership with Les Arcs Film Festival- Public master classes, lectures and workshops.