ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Young Composers' Training Pathways in France: Royaumont, Ircam, Conservatoire

other · 2026-04-23

This article explores the training opportunities available for emerging composers in France, highlighting the Voix Nouvelles summer program at Royaumont Abbey, the Ircam computer music course, and the composition prize from the Conservatoire de Paris. According to Marc Texier, out of 75 submissions, only one candidate from France was chosen. Notable instructors include Brian Ferneyhough, Daniel d'Adamo, and Thierry Blondeau. Claire-Mélanie Sinnhuber (born 1973) shares insights on the varied experiences offered by these programs. Frédéric Durieux points out the trend of late student enrollment (ages 26-28) and the restrictions on financial support. Yann Robin (born 1974) emphasizes the importance of the three-stage training process. Ircam's Frank Madlener is updating the curriculum, while Raphaël Cendo (born 1975) appreciates the intellectual engagement at Ircam, and Sebastian Rivas (born 1975) is working on an opera. Performances are planned for Royaumont (September 2, 8), Ircam (October 2, 6), and the Conservatoire de Paris (October 16, 17, 18, 26).

Key facts

  • Voix Nouvelles at Royaumont received 75 applications from worldwide, with only one French candidate among 15 selected.
  • Teachers include Brian Ferneyhough (since 1990), Daniel d'Adamo, and Thierry Blondeau.
  • Claire-Mélanie Sinnhuber completed all three programs and won the Conservatoire prize in 2006 with Blade Affection.
  • Frédéric Durieux notes that students enter composition classes at ages 26-28 and may be considered too old for aid by 40.
  • Yann Robin (born 1974) views the three-stage path as obligatory for young composers.
  • Frank Madlener is reforming Ircam's curriculum to emphasize artistic quality over electronics.
  • Raphaël Cendo (born 1975) credits Fausto Romitelli for a breakthrough on 'dirty sounds' at Royaumont.
  • Sebastian Rivas is working on an opera about Margaret Thatcher and Augusto Pinochet.
  • Performances: Royaumont Sept 2 & 8, Ircam Oct 2 & 6, Conservatoire Oct 16-18 & 26.

Entities

Artists

  • Marc Texier
  • Brian Ferneyhough
  • Daniel d'Adamo
  • Thierry Blondeau
  • Emilie Aussel
  • Claire-Mélanie Sinnhuber
  • Frédéric Durieux
  • Yann Robin
  • Yan Maresz
  • Frank Madlener
  • Raphaël Cendo
  • Fausto Romitelli
  • Sebastian Rivas
  • Margaret Thatcher
  • Augusto Pinochet
  • Pierre Gervasoni

Institutions

  • Voix Nouvelles
  • Royaumont Abbey
  • Ircam
  • Conservatoire de Paris (CNSMDP)
  • Le Fresnoy
  • Studio national des arts contemporains

Locations

  • Royaumont
  • Val d'Oise
  • France
  • Sri Lanka
  • Thailand
  • Paris
  • England
  • Argentina

Sources