Masterclass with William Christie and Emmanuel Resche-Caserta

Singing Marc-Antoine Charpentier 

Co-musical director and founder of Les Arts Florissants, William Christie is one of the greatest conductors of our time. Through his pioneering work in rediscovering Baroque music, he has contributed in particular to reviving the music of composer Marc-Antoine Charpentier, of whom he remains one of the greatest interpreters to this day. 
Emmanuel Resche-Caserta is William Christie's musical assistant and first violinist with Les Arts Florissants, accompanying the ensemble's major orchestral productions in the world's most prestigious concert halls. 

Over four days of artistic practice, the two artists invite instrumentalists and singers to explore the operas of Marc-Antoine Charpentier, such as La Descente d'Orphée aux Enfers, Médée, Actéon, and others.

Who is it for?

This masterclass is aimed at young professionals or students in higher education:

• Singers: soprano, countertenor, bass
• Instrumentalists: violinists and violists, harpsichordists, cellists, and gambists
• Ensembles wishing to perfect their baroque repertoire 

Where and when?

From May 14 to 17, 2026 (arrival in Thiré on May 13 at the end of the day) at the Quartier des Artistes in Thiré (Vendée), an exceptional heritage site combining beautiful gardens and musical pleasures, birthplace of the Festival Dans les Jardins de William Christie. 

Learning outcomes

• Deepen your mastery of the French Baroque style
• Work on declamation, affects, and harmonic language in Marc-Antoine Charpentier's vocal writing 

Workflow

The schedule will consist of group and individual work sessions, as well as theoretical sessions (sources, context, etc.). 

Number of participants 

The masterclass is limited to 12 participants.

Final concert 

A public presentation concert will be held at the end of the masterclass.

How to apply? 

Please complete the online form (LINK).

Via this form, singers and instrumentalists wishing to participate must send the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae with photo ;
• Covering letter ;
• Audio or video recording of a 3-minute excerpt from a pre-1800 French opera, also to be presented at the masterclass.

Application deadline: April 12, 2026 

Participation fee: 750 € 
These costs include tuition, accommodation in a single room, meals and transfers from the nearest train station.

For information and inquiries, please send an e-mail to masterclasses@arts-florissants.org