First edition of Burning Pian’

At Kulture Botte, we don’t only do public shows…
On July 13th, we co-organized a private party where music, nature, and friendships came together.

Nearly a hundred people settled facing the Remiremont valley: children running between towels, elders enjoying the gentle evening, friends, neighbors, and curious onlookers. A diverse, lively audience brought together by music.

In the heart of the afternoon, pianist Matthias Barlier delivered a masterful recital, presenting a repertoire spanning nearly 300 years, from Bach to Prokofiev, including Beethoven, Chopin, and Liszt. A graduate of the conservatories of Nancy, Dijon, Besançon, and Rotterdam, he kept his audience spellbound for almost two hours. His notes, carried by the open-air piano with the horizon as a backdrop, seemed to converse with the landscape.

The evening continued with a shared meal and the jazzy tones of Velvet Boots, before an open stage allowed everyone to add their touch.

But the highlight of the evening came later, with a rare and unforgettable gesture. Our friend, piano tuner, repairer, and custodian (Piano Méridien), gave an old instrument a singular ritual. Seated at the keyboard, he played its final notes while the piano was set alight, like an offering to the stars and the moon. A poignant and poetic performance that turned the night into a ceremony.

And as if to salute this offering, the sky ignited in response. The July 13th fireworks, launched from surrounding villages, lit up the valley, with those from Remiremont in the foreground. Music, flames, and lights came together to create a grand finale, etched into everyone’s memory.