Christmas concerts are multiplying in Nice. We attended the one at the Basilica of Notre-Dame on Sunday, December 17.
A beautiful program where even those unfamiliar with the pieces would recognize them once played. Generous and accessible tunes, including a concert for Oboe by A. Marcello, reminiscent for enthusiasts of Folon’s bird-man drawings taking flight at the end of Antenna 2 programs. We noted the very fine performance of soloist Eric Mège on the Oboe.
The finale with the overture from Tannhauser was highly appreciated, and the large audience requested an encore, which included all the well-known Christmas tunes (a beautiful medley from O Christmas Tree to Silent Night).
Upon leaving the basilica, we finally felt a sense of Christmas spirit far from the ultra-commercial atmosphere. Music soothes the soul, and it’s lovely to rediscover Christmas music at any age. We found ourselves thinking we would return, as more concerts are planned for this rather original church. It’s a shame it’s in such a deplorable state, with its facade so dirty, along with its surroundings. It is promised to be cleaned once Tramway construction is completed. Let’s hope that its passing on Saturday signifies the beginning of a renaissance along this avenue.
