CONNECTITALIA-NZ proudly presents FOLLOW THE NOTES - In the Footsteps of the Great French Composers, a 14-day cultural journey through France, led by author, historian and pianist Selwyn Parker.  ​Selwyn lived and worked in Paris as a journalist with Agence France-Presse. His books include the award-winning Chasing the Chimney Sweep, Coin of the Kingdom and The Great Crash. He holds an MA in French from the University of Auckland, and his piano repertoire includes Debussy, Ravel, Satie, Massenet and Chopin, alongside cabaret and jazz. From the bohemian streets of Montmartre to the elegance of the French Riviera and Aix-en-Provence, this journey follows the lives, stories and musical landscapes of some of France's greatest composers, including Satie, Debussy, Ravel, Saint-Saëns, Fauré and Chopin. More than a traditional sightseeing tour, Follow the Notes offers an opportunity to explore composers' homes, historic neighbourhoods, museums and cafés associated with their lives and work. Two piano recitals by Selwyn, together with opportunities for conversation, performances and independent discovery, will bring France's rich musical heritage to life.  ​Since 2016, CONNECTITALIA-NZ has successfully organised nine small-group cultural tours in Italy, drawing on the complementary backgrounds of its founders, Beniamino Petrosino and Anne Scragg. We now bring that experience to France, with Selwyn as our expert tour leader and one of our own escorts accompanying the group. Our approach is personal and unhurried, allowing travellers to enjoy each destination in comfort, with individual care and attention throughout. Whether travelling alone or with a companion, you will be warmly welcomed into a small group of like-minded travellers.

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Beginning and ending in Paris, this land-based tour welcomes participants from anywhere in the world. Join us for an enriching journey of music, history and culture, discovering France through the composers who helped shape its artistic identity.