THE ASSOCIATION

Musichoridanse was launched in 1999 by Danielle Pontvianne and Jo Gattet .

It was born from the desire to bring together people of all ages from all countries and all cultural backgrounds  and to get to know these people whose rich heritage lies hidden behind borders and is often inaccessible because of linguistic and economic barriers.

These people will remain strangers to us unless we try to understand them , and more importantly unless we invite them here.

THE FESTIVAL

At the dawn of Year 2000 , Musichoridanse is a humanistic association seeking to facilitate mutual knowledge among the European countries . This was the purpose of the first MUSICHORIDANSE festival of European cultures , which took place in 1999.

Singing, dancing and playing ( instrumental ) music are universal ways of expression that make us get over linguistic barriers. They are deeply rooted in the rich cultural traditions  kept alive by these people who thus  managed to survive through hard times and defend their identities .

This festival is unique because it invites groups from across Europe to stay with host families. Over 250 volunteers take part in this event every time . The festival could not exist without them.

The strong bonds of friendships which  are tied through these contacts undoubtedly pave the way for a strong  and great  Europe .

• The organisation

Musichoridanse is composed of  individuals,  families, associations and groups of villagers of very different  backgrounds , willing to give their time and working together, aiming at the same objectives.
These men and women, through their active participation , make this festival a genuine movement for Peace , Brotherhood   and Tolerance .

• Host families

On  average around  125 families host 250 foreign guests. They volunteer to become the French families of two members from the guest groups.

• The intercultural workshops

Each festival includes two mornings during which the guest groups meet local groups from the same cultural fields ( band or orchestra, choir, dance group) . These workshops have always proved  a great success. These workshops have several objectives . They aim at giving everyone a chance to share their common deep interest by studying works from each country present at the festival, at facilitating bonds of friendship between participants, and at being actively introduced, through practice, to the culture of a neighbouring or distant European country .

• The concerts

Europe on your doorstep. For 4 or 5 days choirs, bands and dance groups from across Europe tour the Tarare area and give concerts and shows in different indoor and outdoor venues – village squares, village halls and churches .