In April 2025, the Festival Beethoven à Beaune will return with a heartfelt tribute to the enduring power of family legacies in shaping classical music. Taking place from April 3 to 6, the festival’s theme, “Domaine Familial,” will shine a spotlight on the deep connections within musical dynasties and the inspiration they’ve passed on through generations. Set against the historical beauty of Beaune, the festival promises a rich exploration of heritage, artistry, and community, all under the expert direction of President Frédéric Mugnier and Artistic Director Sung-Won Yang.
Courtesy of Festival Beethoven à Beaune
For Mugnier, the theme of family legacies strikes a personal chord. “In Burgundy, estates are passed down through families, much like the great composers who passed their musical legacies to future generations,” he shares. The 2025 festival will celebrate these interconnected family stories by showcasing the works of the Johann Sebastian Bach, Felix Mendelssohn, and the Schumann families. “These dynasties influenced one another and future generations, creating music that has stood the test of time,” Mugnier reflects.
This year’s program marks a distinctive departure from Beethoven’s own works—an intentional choice that Mugnier is eager to explain. “Beethoven’s influence is all-encompassing. He was shaped by the composers before him, and his impact resonates in the works of those who came after. Though his music is not featured in this edition, his presence will be felt throughout the festival.”
The festival’s concerts will take place in Beaune’s most historic venues, including the iconic Hospices de Beaune and the Lanterne Magique, where the architecture itself offers a sense of connection to the music. “These spaces are vital to the experience. They link the music’s history with its present-day audience,” Mugnier notes. The festival will also extend its reach to Dijon, offering an expanded program to engage even more listeners.
The performances will not only celebrate the musical families being honored but will also highlight the personal connections between the artists. The program features duos such as Hélène and Eric Levionnois, as well as baroque specialists Kaori Uemura and Ryo Terakado, whose artistry is deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. “When performers share a personal connection to the music or to each other, it creates a unique energy that the audience can truly feel,” Mugnier explains.
The festival remains committed to inspiring younger generations through outreach programs that connect students and educators to the artists. Reflecting on last year’s success, Mugnier recalls, “It was incredible to witness students understand that music isn’t just something you stream—it’s created by real people. That connection is invaluable.”
As the Festival Beethoven à Beaune continues to grow, Mugnier strives to maintain a balance between tradition and innovation. “It’s like a new vintage of wine,” he says. “You recognize the style, but each year brings something fresh. The festival should feel familiar yet surprising—never the same, but never completely different.”
With the 2025 Festival Beethoven à Beaune, Mugnier aims to deliver an unforgettable experience that honors both the musical and cultural heritage of the region. “Music and wine are universal languages. They bring people together, connecting past and present, family and community. That is the essence of our festival.
