Apple’s 50th Anniversary in France: A Celebration of Music and Art
Apple is commemorating its 50th anniversary in France with a series of exclusive events at its flagship store on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. Unlike previous celebrations in the United States, China, and South Korea, which featured single gatherings, Apple France has curated four unique Today at Apple sessions. These hour-long presentations are scheduled over two days, March 25 and March 26, 2026.
Evening Conversations on Music and Visual Arts
The festivities commence on Wednesday, March 25, at 6:00 PM local time, with an evening session featuring music journalist Naomi Clement in conversation with graphic artist So Me. Renowned for his iconic projects, So Me will delve into his approach to blending visual arts with music, offering insights into his creative process.
The following evening, Thursday, March 26, at 6:00 PM, Clement returns to interview Boombass, a celebrated producer and musician. The discussion will focus on the evolution of French Touch, the influential 1990s electronic dance music genre that has left a lasting impact on the global music scene.
Afternoon Sessions Exploring Digital Creation
Afternoon events begin at 3:00 PM on both days. On Wednesday, March 25, producer and DJ Myd will break down his creative process and offer a live demonstration of GarageBand, emphasizing the French Touch musical genre. Attendees will gain firsthand experience of how digital tools can be harnessed to create compelling music.
On Thursday, March 26, the focus shifts to SOPORI FM, a fictional radio station that serves as a relaxing electronic music album available on Apple Music. During this unique presentation, creator TRENTE will collaborate with artist Pi Ja Ma, who will create visual stories on an iPad in real time. This session aims to showcase the synergy between music and visual art in the digital age.
Historical Significance of the Champs-Élysées Store
The Champs-Élysées location holds historical significance for Apple. In 2021, the company celebrated its 40th anniversary in France at this very store by opening a dedicated Apple Music radio studio. This studio has since become a hub for artists and creators, reflecting Apple’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation.
Apple’s Legacy in France
Apple’s journey in France began in 1981, and over the past five decades, the company has grown to employ 2,700 individuals and operate 20 retail stores across the country. The 50th-anniversary celebrations not only honor this legacy but also underscore Apple’s ongoing commitment to the French market and its vibrant creative community.
The Evolution of French Touch
French Touch, also known as French house, emerged in the 1990s as a distinctive style of electronic dance music characterized by its use of filter and phaser effects, funk and disco samples, and a house music tempo. Artists like Daft Punk, Air, and Cassius brought this genre to international prominence. The upcoming sessions with Boombass and Myd will provide attendees with a deeper understanding of this genre’s evolution and its impact on contemporary music.
Integrating Visual Arts and Music
The collaboration between TRENTE and Pi Ja Ma highlights the growing trend of integrating visual arts with music. In an era where digital platforms dominate, the fusion of these art forms offers new avenues for storytelling and audience engagement. This session aims to inspire attendees to explore interdisciplinary creative processes.
Apple’s Commitment to Creativity
Apple’s Today at Apple sessions are designed to educate and inspire customers by providing them with the tools and knowledge to pursue their creative passions. By hosting these events, Apple reinforces its role not just as a technology provider but as a catalyst for creativity and innovation.
Looking Ahead
As Apple celebrates this milestone, it also looks to the future, continuing to support and collaborate with artists, musicians, and creators. The 50th-anniversary events in France serve as a testament to the company’s enduring relationship with the country’s rich cultural landscape.
