Ysaÿe's Knokke

Music is the way in which our association ‘Les Amis du Zoute’ (The Friends of Le Zoute) chooses to celebrate its 85th anniversary,
by recreating the musical atmosphere in Le Zoute in the early years of the twentieth century.
This period was marked by the presence in this seaside resort of the renowned Belgian violinist and composer Eugène Ysaÿe.
He was surrounded by musicians and composers from all parts of the world and frequently received Queen Elisabeth as his guest.
It was a place conducive to creative work, but also a place to relax. It is also 85 years since Ysaÿe passed away.
 further reason to honour him and to evoke this period.

With over 30 talented musicians coming from around the whole world, the association ‘Les Amis du Zoute’ are offering lovers of
music and of the town of Zoute a really superb musical treat. Dozens of young musicians will join the great
players for public master classes and will make the air vibrate with music in many parts of the town. The musical
director for the occasion is the brilliant violinist Philippe Graffin, famous worldwide and an expert in the music of
the great Ysaÿe himself. Princess Esmeralda of Belgium has agreed to be the patron of the ‘Ysaÿe’s Knokke’ festival,
in remembrance of the close friendship between her grandmother Queen Elisabeth and Eugène Ysaÿe, and her
family’s links with Le Zoute. The crowning moment is a fine musical gala evening, full of surprises, at the Knokke-Heist
Casino.

‘Les Amis du Zoute’ are delighted to share this wonderful moment with you. Enjoy the musical tasting!