Artist Zine, through his association Fin’amor e gai saber, is offering singing workshops and classes to revitalize the culture and language of Nice.
In Nice, the preservation and transmission of the local cultural heritage resonate passionately in the initiatives of artist Zine. Supported by his association Fin’amor e gai saber, he is taking various actions to keep the language and traditions of Nice alive, moving away from a fixed view of folklore. Singing workshops, language classes, activism, and musical events make up a rich program intended for all those who wish to embrace this vibrant culture.
The next significant event is a polyphonic singing workshop scheduled for June 13. Designed as “a suspended moment, to reconnect with the body, the breath, with voice,” this afternoon is open to all, regardless of skill level. From 2pm to 5pm, participants will engage in vocal warm-ups, learn songs, and be immersed in collective practice.
The goal is simple: the sheer pleasure of singing together.
“We sing in polyphony, without pressure. We also laugh a lot. And sometimes, it touches deeper than expected,” explains Zine, emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere starting at 1:30 pm for a time of exchange over tea or coffee.
Due to the success of previous editions, spaces for this workshop, priced at a special rate of 20 euros, are very limited. Registration is mandatory via email at finamoregaisaber@gmail.com.
Beyond singing, Zine places language at the core of his approach. With his “Niçois in the spotlight” training, he invites non-speakers to learn and become “culture bearers” themselves. For him, learning Niçois is more than just a linguistic process.
“The sounds of Niçois sing. They tell of the sea, the mountains, the markets, the festivals… It’s a language full of colors, images, musicality,” he underlines.
This initiative aims to connect generations and instill a sense of pride in the younger ones.
“In a time where forgetfulness seems to take up more and more space, we choose to bring back what unites and what makes us grow,” asserts Zine.
All information to start learning is available on his website (https://9ucsd.r.sp1-brevo.net/mk/cl/f/sh/SMK1E8tHeGLdaZEPNigfXxL6TZMz/1WUXHJR3ye8A).
Cultural and activist initiatives Zine’s commitment is also evident in other unique events. Soon, he will offer a mass where Niçois songs will resonate, in collaboration with priest Gil Florini. The musical program will include original compositions, adaptations of classics like Gounod’s “Ave Maria” or “Greensleeves,” and a new creation based on a text by Dédé Truqui.
Simultaneously, a petition named “We are not santons” has been launched to defend a dynamic and contemporary vision of the Niçois identity. With over 300 signatures collected in a few weeks, the action will continue until autumn, reflecting a collective desire to avoid reducing the local culture to a mere postcard image.
The petition is available online (https://9ucsd.r.sp1-brevo.net/mk/cl/f/sh/SMK1E8tHeG13E8lXqEEDGTQsYfcD/DEdZV19HNZ6M).
