Présence Compositrices

Présence Compositrices is a music festival dedicated to celebrating women composers and bringing overlooked works to wider audiences. Held each spring at the Abbey of La Celle in Provence, France, the festival presents music from different periods and traditions, performed by emerging and established artists. Its 2026 edition runs from April 17 to May 3, with concerts featuring baroque, medieval, romantic, impressionist, contemporary and traditional music, alongside projects that combine Western and African music or classical and electronic sounds.

The programme also includes “Les Préludes,” showcasing young artists, and “Les Modulations,” a series of free daytime activities such as talks, guided visits, writing sessions and workshops exploring composers, music, plants and mythology. Tickets are intentionally affordable, with free admission for visitors under 26 and several other eligible groups. Concert capacity is limited, so advance booking is recommended. The festival welcomes visitors to an accessible historic venue and provides practical information about travel, local transport, accommodation and dining.