What's La Folle Journée?

• What's La Folle Journée?
• The Unique Features
• Outline of the Facilities
• René Martin
• Naming of each facility

About René Martin

Artistic Producer

Interview

  I have always been fascinated by Japan and have had opportunities to work with concert agencies in Japan. I really like the earnestness and passion that the Japanese bring to their work and the very enthusiastic audiences at concerts.
Being able to premiere La Folle Journée here in Japan was primarily the result of collaboration as a team with Iwao Toriumi, Kunihiko Takahashi and Masahide Kajimoto. These people immediately put their trust in me.
There are now many outstanding Japanese musicians active in many parts of the world who are stimulating the world music scene in a most remarkable way. Their well-rounded musical education and their outstanding accomplishments are truly amazing. That's why I am so certain of the success of La Folle Journée in Tokyo. Holding this event in Tokyo will have a positive influence on festivals in other cities, including Nantes, Bilbao and Lisbon. Conversely, the experiences we have had in Europe with the event will no doubt provide support for the music scene in Tokyo.
It's often said that the present time is one of crisis for classical music. In order to change this negative trend we need a major change in our way of thinking. Instead of the conventional form of concerts, where classical music is presented in the normal framework, we need to present this music to people in a new style. I would like La Folle Journée to be a festival in the true sense of the word, where people of all ages can gather and enjoy the music. We have kept the prices of tickets down while offering music of the highest quality. That is the key to success. La Folle Journée has had a major impact on the music scene in France and in countries to which the idea has been exported.
Not operating on the principle of competition, but relying on the passion and spirit of music, here is an adventure in which artists can show their talent in a most exciting way. I hope many people will participate in this unique event. I believe that everyone who comes to this festival will discover something special while deepening his or her knowledge and appreciation of music. We call on the passion and spirited interest of all in transcending even the framework of La Folle Journée as we head toward the future. That is my heartfelt wish.

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