This exceptional classical music festival promises a rich and open edition in Oise.

The Clermont Musical Encounters, a major event for classical music in Oise, remains a well-oiled machine. An exceptional lineup awaits classical music enthusiasts at the 12th edition of this festival, with renowned performers and promising talents ready to make classical music resonate in the walls of the Saint-Samson church in Clermont, from September 20 to October 11, 2026.

Six public concerts at Saint-Samson Church

Tickets will go on sale on June 19, 2026 (online and at the Atelier Gourmand restaurant on Rue de la République in Clermont), less than a month away.

Introducing classical music to a wider audience is the key focus of the festival, with the six public concerts taking place at Saint-Samson Church. This 13th-century building, at the heart of a parish with 25 steeples, is also in the spotlight this year due to urgent renovation work before a major renovation spanning a decade. “All profits from our refreshment stands will be donated to the Heritage Foundation for the funding of the renovation work,” said Cécile Grange, Deputy Mayor for Culture in the City of Clermont and festival president, who oversees the festival alongside Claire de Varine, its artistic director.

Gaëlle Solal and Élodie Bouny, the two most prominent guitarists of the moment

There will be baroque, classical (Mozart, Schubert, etc.). We will also offer a piano recital, a piano and strings quintet (the Dutilleux Quartet / G. Bellom), a baroque ensemble with a countertenor (Ensemble “Les Épopées”, Ed. note)… A first for the Musical Encounters!”

Among the highlights of these two months dedicated to great music is a duo of virtuoso guitarists formed by Gaëlle Solal and Elodie Bouny. They will also lead master classes in music schools. “They are currently the two best guitarists in France,” said Cécile Grange.

For the first time, a concert organized in prison

Another major innovation this year is a concert outside the Liancourt Penitentiary Center. After establishments like the Cesap in Clermont and the CHI in Fitz-James, and activities with students in the area (including music workshops planned this year in schools in Étouy), the festival will take a new step by performing in a prison setting.

A grand piano will enter the Liancourt Penitentiary Center on October 5 for a concert featuring Katherine Forestier (piano), Françoise Rusher (violin), and Clélentine Bourgoin (mezzo-soprano). The goal remains the same: to introduce the diversity of classical music to all audiences.

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