The Republican Guard Orchestra is one of France’s finest ensembles, and its musicians are selected through a competitive examination from among graduates of the national conservatoires. Its string ensemble play Théâtre municipal de Fontainebleau the Sunday 4 October 2026 at 4.00 pm. The entrance is free, with voluntary participation, and the concert is open to everyone, not just to members of the association.
The concert marks the 20th anniversary of the Friends of Fontainebleau Castle Association. For the past two decades, this charity has been funding restoration work, acquiring artworks for the collections and supporting projects not covered by the state budget. It stepped in once again this summer to help the forest estate following the wildfires. An anniversary celebrated with music rather than speeches – we’re certainly not going to complain about that.
The concert opens with the’opening of The Anonymous Lover from Knight of St George, a virtuoso violinist, renowned fencer and composer whom the 18th century adored before forgetting him. This is followed by excerpts from The Magic Flute by Mozart, his contemporary. Two 18th-century contemporaries, performed in a 1912 Italian-style theatre: the combination is perfect.
A string orchestra of this calibre, just a stone’s throw from Rue Grande, for whatever people care to give – that’s the sort of thing you won’t find in many towns with a population of twenty thousand. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, which means your seat is determined by the order in which you arrive.
L'Registration is compulsory, subject to availability. Registration is carried out online via the registration page for the concert by the Republican Guard of the Friends of the Castle, or directly to the Glassmakers’ Pavilion, within the castle grounds, during the association’s opening hours. Admission is free but booking is essential, as places fill up quickly.
Find out all about the organisation and its activities on the website of the Friends of Fontainebleau Castle.
Please note: We would be delighted to check your establishment details. It's free, but to make sure it's you, please complete the information below.
