A Symphony of Events: The Unforgettable 2025 Season with the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal
As the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal (OSM) gears up for its 2025 season, music lovers are in for a treat with a series of spectacular concerts. The program kicks off with a diversity of musical experiences, from Mahler’s profound symphonies to the intense dramatics of Berlioz's The Damnation of Faust. The lineup includes young talent at the Concours musical international de Montréal and masterful performances of classic works by Brahms, Dvořák, Beethoven, Haydn, and more. Each event promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of artistic brilliance and emotional depth.
This unprecedented convergence of Mahler and the premiere of a new work for voices and orchestra, set in Indigenous languages, delivers an unforgettable season-closing concert!
The Concours musical international de Montréal (CMIM) invites us to experience the excellence and artistry of the best young musicians of the new generation.
The Concours musical international de Montréal (CMIM) invites us to experience the excellence and artistry of the best young musicians of the new generation.
After thrilling audiences with his interpretation of Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique on his last European tour, Rafael Payare tackles The Damnation of Faust. Inspired by Goethe’s great play, Berlioz’s masterpiece is characterized by its powerful orchestral writing and narrative expressiveness. The work tells the tragic story of Faust, who makes a pact with Mephistopheles to secure happiness and Marguerite’s love. Instead, the deal lands Faust in hell while Marguerite is saved. Featuring remarkable orchestration and striking choral passages, this concert will take audiences on an intense and captivating emotional journey. A season opener that is not to be missed!
López’s symphonic poem Aino is a beautiful tribute to Finland, while Dvořák affirms his Slavic identity in his Symphony No. 6 by using material from a Slavic folk dance for the first time. Finally, let yourself be enchanted by Brahms’ legendary Violin Concerto, a mainstay of the instrument’s repertoire, which will be masterfully performed by the internationally acclaimed violinist James Ehnes.
Two great performers come together for a concert dedicated to two iconic figures of Viennese classicism—Beethoven and Haydn. With his Symphony No. 103, Hadyn made an ambitious break with convention, while Beethoven’s Violin Concerto is full of romantic expressiveness. Both works open with mysterious-sounding timpani passages, creating a captivating dialogue that is always appreciated by audiences. Don’t miss your chance to rediscover two of the greatest composers of all time!
Rafael Payare continues the Mahler cycle he launched in 2022 with Symphony No. 9, an instrumental masterpiece of unparalleled richness, where every note resonates with deep emotion. In this work, Mahler evokes humanity’s reconciliation with the universe, weaving deep spirituality with moments of awe-inspiring beauty. A rare opportunity to experience a concert that is both musically intense and introspective.
Brian Manker and James Box step out of their usual roles in the orchestra to deliver breathtaking performances as soloists. The program features works shaped by philosophical and spiritual influences, as Strauss, Wagner, Bloch, and Moussa each explore profound themes in their own unique way. Strauss’ piece, a symphonic poem inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche’s philosophical work Thus Spoke Zarathustra, opens with a majestic introduction made world-famous by Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. An unmissable concert bringing together striking music, deep reflection, and masterful artistry.
By adding a second cello instead of the traditional second viola to his String Quintet, Schubert redefined the boundaries of chamber music, giving his work an almost orchestral depth. The timeless Adagio is a pinnacle of expressiveness.
To celebrate Halloween, step into the surreal atmosphere of Rachmaninoff’s Isle of the Dead, accompanied by van Woerkum’s film of the same name, where the realms of fantasy and fear intertwine. The wild virtuosity of Liszt’s Totentanz (Dance of the Dead), performed by Goodwin Friesen, winner of the 2022 OSM Competition, captures the chilling battle between life and death. Prepare for an evening of spine-tingling mystery and excitement, capped off with festivities at the Maison Symphonique.
As the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal’s 2025 season unfolds, each concert offers a unique glimpse into the world of music, blending tradition with innovation. From captivating debuts and competitions to the grand interpretations of classical masterpieces, there is something for every listener. The OSM continues to push musical boundaries, creating unforgettable experiences that resonate long after the final note has been played. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer to orchestral music, this season is an invitation to embark on a remarkable musical journey.