Les Basaltiques Traditional Music Festival in Le Puy-en-Velay, France
Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph the Les Basaltiques traditional music festival, held annually in Le Puy-en-Velay, France. It's a vibrant celebration of traditional music and dance, particularly from the Auvergne region and beyond. The festival, organized by the Haute-Loire Departmental Center for Traditional Music and Dance (CDMDT 43), has become a key summer event in the area.
Typically spanning four days, the festival features a mix of concerts, traditional dance balls (bals), and immersive workshops. In 2024, the festival took place from July 24 to July 27 at the Centre Pierre Cardinal. Each evening was packed with activities, including apéro-concerts, where attendees could enjoy live music with drinks, and themed dance events led by well-known folk groups. During the day, participants could take part in workshops focusing on traditional music and dance, offering a deep dive into the cultural heritage of the region.
Les Basaltiques is not just about performances; it's an opportunity for both locals and visitors to engage with the rich traditions of the area in a festive and communal atmosphere. Whether through learning a new dance or simply enjoying the lively performances, the festival provides a unique window into the vibrant cultural life of Le Puy-en-Velay.
I was lucky enough to be the photographer for the event. Below is a selection of photographs from the event. Overall, it was an incredible experience and gave me an immense appreciation for traditional French music.
The entire gallery for the music festival can be found here. The high resolution photographs can be freely downloaded directly from the gallery.
