On 22 January 2026 the Rittersaal (Knights’ Hall) in the Pfälzer Schloss provided the atmospheric setting for a kick-off that could not have been more beautiful for the historic anniversary year of our Odenwald wine island.
It is exactly 60 years since the twinning with our French partner town Saint-Péray was sealed – a milestone of reconciliation that is more alive today than ever. In the hall sold out to the last seat, an air of expectant joy hung as the first piano notes filled the room and carried us off on a journey into the heart of the French way of life. It was not just a concert but a tribute to the European bond that has shaped our town since 1966 and will be celebrated next year with a multifaceted programme.
A musical journey through the heart of France
Under the title “C’est si bon!” – “That’s so good!” – singer Petra Bassus and pianist Michael Erhard ignited a veritable firework of emotions. With her expressive and varied voice, Petra Bassus lent the great classics from Jacques Brel to Édith Piaf a very distinctive, deep intensity. She sang of longing, passion and all the shimmering facets of love while Michael Erhard accompanied her on the grand piano with masterly virtuosity. The interplay of the two musicians made the boundary between stage and audience disappear and made tangible the cultural power of chanson, which goes far beyond mere entertainment and touches deeper human truths.
Breathing history on the day of friendship
The date of this evening was by no means chosen at random, because 22 January marks every year the anniversary of the signing of the Élysée Treaty, the foundation of Franco-German friendship. During the interval guests had the chance to deepen this political legacy in an accompanying exhibition. The pictures shown documented the historic encounters of German chancellors and French presidents and reminded us that the twinning between Groß-Umstadt and Saint-Péray is an essential part of this great European peace project. This connection is filled with life anew day after day through personal encounters and cultural exchange.
Culinary enjoyment and a look ahead to the anniversary year
Culinarily, the evening was rounded off with wines from the winegrowers’ cooperative and typically French pastries, building a bridge to our identity as wine partner towns. The grape and the heart, which also adorn our new anniversary logo, were found again in the conversations and in the glass. This successful kick-off was, however, only the start of an eventful year that will take us to the next highlight as early as May. The May encounter in Saint-Péray from 14 to 18 May 2026 is entirely devoted to personal encounter and offers the chance to experience the warmth of our French friends directly on site in the Ardèche.
Join our travel group to Saint-Péray
If you too would like to become part of this living history, we warmly invite you to accompany us to Saint-Péray. The trip takes place from 14 to 18 May 2026, with the cost of the return journey at around 180.00 euros per person. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience Europe not just as a concept but as genuine friendship. Best sign up soon by email at staedtepartnerschaften@gross-umstadt.de and secure your place in our delegation. We look forward to opening the next chapter of our 60-year twinning together with you.
An evening full of emotions: chanson, history and 60 years of friendship
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