Jeune Orchestre de l’Abbaye aux Dames
The Jeune Orchestre de l’Abbaye aux Dames (JOA) is a leading training initiative that prepares young musicians, either at the end of their studies or at the start of their careers, for precise and expressive interpretation of the Classical and early modern repertoire, from Mozart and Beethoven to Mahler.
For more than twenty years, the JOA—formerly known as the Jeune Orchestre Atlantique—has been based in Saintes, in the Charente region, at the heart of a territory rich in history and culture. It is within this remarkable setting, at the Abbaye aux Dames, an iconic 12th‑century monument, that one of France’s most renowned classical‑music festivals takes place. For over half a century, this abbey, with its striking architecture and unique acoustics, has welcomed generations of musicians committed to historically informed performance. Steeped in history, the site has become a true artistic crucible where strong and lasting professional networks are forged.
The JOA’s training programme is structured around a two‑year practical component in Saintes, including 24 hours of weekly instrumental instruction, four orchestral sessions, and six chamber‑music sessions. In parallel, students follow a theoretical curriculum at the University of Poitiers. This demanding course culminates in a high‑level concert at the Festival de Saintes, conducted by internationally renowned maestros such as Julien Chauvin, Laurence Equilbey, Philippe Herreweghe, Louis Langrée, Raphaël Pichon, or Christophe Rousset. The results speak for themselves: a study conducted in 2020 showed that more than 87% of participants felt the programme had strengthened their professional network, and 55% found employment upon completing their studies.
The Société Générale Foundation is proud to support the Jeune Orchestre de l’Abbaye aux Dames since September 2023, convinced that this alliance of historical heritage, musical excellence, and transmission constitutes an essential investment in the future of classical music and its emerging talents.
Photo credit: Sébastien Laval