MUSIC UN-TUXED in France
June 2-9, 2026
Play, Relax, Recharge: A Musical Escape to the French Countryside
Join us for an intimate music festival designed for Musicians and Music Lovers who want to experience the pleasures of French cooking, wines, and art while making and listening to chamber music.
Join us for an enlightening, pleasurable, and nourishing retreat to the villages of Brittany, France.
Drenched in days of Light
June is the perfect time to visit St. Just because the days are long and cool. The sun rises at 6am and doesn't set until 10pm
Culinary Experience
Complete with private French chef meticulously prepares 3-4 course dinner each night
Full formal French breakfast each morning
Mid-day casual spread of cheeses, meats, veggies, fresh bread for snacking
Community of adventurous and fun musicians and music lovers
Our group takes over the 19th century chateau, country lodge, cottage and sprawling grounds.
Make new connections over games, nature walks, and while making or listening to music at informal evening salons.
Whether you're playing or listening to chamber music, don't miss this opportunity to escape to the French countryside.
JUMP IN
Authenticity in music.
A natural collaboration with earthly pleasures in the beautiful French countryside.
SHED
Old, stodgy paradigms associated with creating classical music.
EMBRACE
Your spirit.
A Haven for Student and Amateur Musicians
This retreat is ideal for student and adult amateur musicians looking to deepen their connection to music while honing their technical skills. Our approach intertwines traditional string techniques with innovative practices like breathing exercises, improvisation inspired by nature, and ensemble dynamics.
What you’ll gain:
Technical Mastery: Daily practice sessions and lessons with experienced faculty to refine your skills on string instruments.
Confidence in Ensemble Playing: Learn how to connect with fellow musicians, creating a shared, harmonious experience in group settings.
Creative Growth: Embrace improvisation and discover the joy of making music in a natural, intuitive way.
Lifelong Habits: Develop practices that nurture your musical journey as a fulfilling and integral part of your life.
Whether you’re seeking to polish your technique or rediscover your passion, this retreat will help you transform your relationship with music.
Meet Our Artistic Director: Dr. Michael T. Jamanis
Dr. Michael T. Jamanis is a distinguished violinist with a profound dedication to music education and performance. He holds a Bachelor of Music from The Juilliard School, a Master of Music from Yale University, and a Doctor of Musical Arts from Rutgers University. Throughout his career, Dr. Jamanis has received numerous accolades, including awards from Lincoln Center, Victor Herbert, Metro-Media, and the National Federation of Music Clubs. His performances have been featured on NPR radio and PBS television.
With extensive experience as a performer, educator, composer, and activist, Dr. Jamanis brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to this retreat. His holistic approach to music integrates technical proficiency with personal expression, aiming to inspire musicians to connect deeply with their art.
Details
Registration Deadline is 12/15/25. Go here for Registration info.
Location: A picturesque French chateau. www.chateauval.com
Cost: $3500 for single room*
Registration Fee: $150 Go here for Registration info.
Travel Expenses: Not included (See details below)
Participants: Limited to 12 for a personalized experience
Music Lover Participants: Will not take lessons and instead will have the option of excursions and wine tasting on their own
* Limited shared accommodations available. Please contact us for more info.
Extras
An Info Session will be held to review details, including travel on Dec. 7, 2025.
Travel Details
Flight options
Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
Paris Orly (ORY)
Rennes (RNS)
Train Options
Rennes station (40min away from Chateau du Val)
Redon (20min away from Chateau du Val)
Train reservations: www.sncf-connect.com/en-en/
Tentative Schedule for Musicians
June 2, 2026
3:00PM: Arrival
4:00PM: Orientation and Introductions
6:30 PM: Dinner
8:00PM: Musical Sharing
June 3–9, 2026
8:00 AM: Gentle Yoga:Breathing & Stretching
9:00 AM: Breakfast
10:00 AM–1:00 PM: Practice & Lessons
1:00 PM Lunch
2:00–6:00 PM: Rehearsals, Improvisation, Nature Activities, or Excursions
6:00 PM: Musical Sharing
7:00 PM: Dinner by Private Chef
9:00 PM: Late Night practice and Jam Sessions
June 5 : Excursion to Gacily - the most picturesque village in France; home of Yves Rochet; fabulous outdoor art installations, chocolate, and more
June 6: Faculty Concert
June 7: Faculty and Participant Concert
June 8: Excursion to be determined–
7 PM: Dinner by private Chef
Reflections
June 9, 2026: Departure after Breakfast
8:30 AM: Gentle Yoga: Breathing & Stretching
9:30 AM: Breakfast
Tentative Schedule for Music Lovers
Each day you will have the mornings for yoga, leisurely breakfast, followed by free time to wander the grounds, swim, play tennis, read, write, or rest.
Excursions
June 3: Tour St. Just, small village closest to the chateau; home of the Megalith Museum,ancient Megalith site, light shopping
June 4: Introduction to French Wines
June 5: Visit La Gacily, the most picturesque village in France; designated city of arts and crafts; home of Yves Rocher; fabulous outdoor art installations, chocolate, and more
June 6: Tango Lessons
June 7: Intro to French Cheeses
June 8: All Day Excursion to Carnac and beaches
June 9: Depart
Join us for an unforgettable experience of growth, connection, and joy through music in the heart of the French countryside
An Unbeatable Opportunity for an Unforgettable Experience
Imagine spending seven nights in a stunning French chateau, surrounded by the serene beauty of Brittany, with a private chef, preparing delicious meals daily. On top of that, you’ll receive world-class music instruction, personalized lessons, and the chance to rejuvenate your passion for playing.
Compare that to the cost of a typical seven-night stay in a high-end European venue, where accommodations and meals alone could easily exceed $2,000. Here, you’re not just booking a stay—you’re immersing yourself in a life-changing musical journey. This retreat is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offered at an incredible value!
Payment Details
Registration Fee: $150
Retreat Fee: $3500 for single room*
Payment Methods: Check, Zelle, or Venmo
* Limited shared accommodations available. Please contact us for more info.
Payment Schedule:
The registration fee secures your spot and is due by Dec. 15, 2025.
Payment is due by Feb. 15, 2026.
Don’t miss this opportunity to reconnect with your music and your spirit in a truly magical setting! Reserve your spot today.