L’île de Ré, a dynamic and diverse music scene

The island of Ré is not only prized for its beaches and picturesque scenery, it’s also a vibrant destination for music lovers. Throughout the year, but particularly during the summer months, the island comes alive with a rich diversity of musical events that attract locals and visitors alike.

The International Guitar Festival, to mark the start of summer

In July

Amateurs of this beautiful instrument or simply curious, this festival brings guitar afficionados together on the Ile de Ré for a few days.

From revivals of the great classics to romantic serenades, world music and concerts by young talent, the International Guitar Festival offers a host of events in all four corners of the island, at the beginning of July.

Evening concerts and daytime entertainment make the island of Ré vibrate to the sound of strings, in the hushed surroundings of churches or in the open air, to enjoy the balmy summer evenings.

Ile de Ré International Guitar Festival

Jazz au Phare, 5 days of celebration in Saint-Clément des Baleines

At the beginning of August

Every year in August, the Jazz au Phare festival offers a varied programme mixing jazz, blues, soul and funk in an exceptional setting, for five unforgettable days. Many of the artists perform on the large stage at the foot of the Baleines lighthouse.
As the concerts take place in the evening, a magical atmosphere is created as night falls, with the illuminated lighthouse as a backdrop.

Jazz au Phare

Jazz concert at the Phare de Saint-Clément-des-Baleines in 2018. — ©Musicians playing at the Festival de Jazz au Phare de Saint-Clément-des-Baleines in 2018.|Pascal Thiebaut

Musique en Ré, the meeting place for classical music

From late July to early August

From late July to early August, the Musique en Ré festival criss-crosses the island for a fortnight with free open-air concerts, symphony concerts in churches and concerts aimed at young audiences.
Great musicians, soloists and conductors, will delight locals and visitors alike with the beauty and majesty of the works performed in a pleasant, relaxed setting, while enjoying the unique atmosphere of the Ile de Ré.

Music in Ré

©Musique en Ré, Alexis Cardenas Quartet, Place de la République, Saint-Martin, July 25, 2022.With Alexis Cardenas: violin, Leo Rondon: guittaron.Guest : Thomas Enhco|Pascal Thiebaut

©Musique en Ré, Biréli Lagrène and Loco Cello Trio, Place de l'Eglise, Sainte Marie, August 03, 2022.With Biréli Lagrène: guitar, Samuel Strouk: guitar, François Salque: cello, Jérémie Arranger: double bass.|Pascal Thiebaut

Festival Ré-Majeure, the place to be during the All Saints’ holiday

End of October 2025

Another festival that has been a faithful fixture on the Ile de Ré for years is the Festival Ré-Majeure. It takes place during the All Saints’ holiday period. 4 days of concerts featuring classical, baroque and modern variety.
The festival concocts a quality programme with renowned artists every year, open to all audiences!

Ré Major

Les Saisons Musicales en Ré, all year round

One concert per season

Several times a year, the Saisons Musicales festival offers themed classical, baroque or contemporary music concerts throughout the year.

Organised by the AR4S association (Association Rétaise des Quatre Saisons), these concerts are the ideal meeting place for music lovers of all ages.

Orgue, brass, trumpets and many others come together for an evening, which over time has become one of the island’s emblematic cultural events.

Musical Seasons in Ré

The programming of the various festivals is of the highest quality and provides an opportunity to discover new talent or attend performances by established artists.

The magic of the island’s setting makes them unique events!