He has the requirement of the classic and the fire of popular music: pianist César de Gurbert brings to light an unknown Cuban repertoire

The small village of La Geneytouse in Haute-Vienne is hosting the fourth piano festival. Until May 5, 2026, young musicians and other high-flying artists take the stage. Among them is César de Gurbert, a promising musician who is presenting his debut album.

In the heart of La Geneytouse village, with its 900 inhabitants in the heart of the Haute-Vienne countryside, stands the shepherd’s house. Across from it is the sheep field from which piano notes can be heard. The auditorium hosts musicians, and concerts follow one after the other. Among the artists are Tom Carré, named classical revelation by Adami in 2023, Adrien Brandeis recognized as one of the most promising jazz players of the moment, and also César de Gurbert. At 25 years old, he is bringing Cuban repertoire back to the spotlight.

Named after the Almendares River that flows through western Cuba, the young pianist released his debut album on April 24, 2026, paying tribute to Manuel Sommel and Ignacio Cervantes. These two virtuosos, founders of Cuban musical nationalism, influenced the island’s music in the 19th century. The pianist describes their music as “little unknown treasures, immediately immersing us in the ambiance of Cuba at that time.”

“This is a repertoire that I love to play because it combines the rigor of classical music with the spirit of popular music. So, playing it on the piano is extremely pleasant, extremely enjoyable, sometimes very playful,” said pianist César de Gurbert.

These Latin music pieces remain relatively unknown and rarely performed in Europe. By venturing off the beaten path, César de Gurbert has won over the association Les Homards InDoSiles, dedicated to promoting music.

“César has a sincerity and a passion for this Latin American music. There’s a fervor that shows when he plays it. He defends it so well that he convinced us effortlessly. They are beautiful and deserve to be highlighted,” said Nathalie Moiroud, manager of César de Gurbert and vice-president of the association Les Homards InDoSiles.

The Maison du Berger hosts about twenty shows per year. César’s repertoire aligns with the ambition of this place. Managed by Etienne Dumont-Saint-Priest, also a sheep farmer, the goal is to create a window to the rest of the world in the middle of the countryside.

“We need to reconnect with this social bond that is live performance, whether in theater or music. Here, it’s a place where people are happy to come because it always ends with a small gathering and discussions with the artists. It’s very precious for Maison du Berger,” said Etienne Dumont-Saint-Priest, manager of Maison du Berger and president of the association Plan de Culture.

From classical to jazz, the festival runs until Tuesday, May 5, 2026.