This season, Montreal's Place des Arts is set to be the epicenter of a series of spellbinding performances celebrating the genius of Ludwig van Beethoven. From the graceful ballet renditions by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in 'MAESTRO' to the orchestral marvels conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin and Vasily Petrenko, audiences are in for a musical feast. Spanning from September 2024 to March 2025, these events promise to captivate and inspire, bringing Beethoven's timeless compositions to life.

Montreal Celebrates Beethoven: A Symphony of Events at Place des Arts

From the enchanting streets of Montreal to quaint churches in France, experience a symphonic celebration of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's timeless works. Highlights include 'Eternal Orlando', 'The Nutcracker', and 'The Sleeping Beauty', each bringing a unique touch of magic and emotion to audiences. Whether you're attending at Place des Arts or exploring the mystical narratives at Église Notre-Dame de la Recluse, there's something for everyone this season.

Tchaikovsky Takes Over Montreal and Beyond: A Symphony of Events

Montreal is set to be captivated by the timeless genius of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with an array of enthralling events. From Les Grands Ballets Canadiens' 'Maestro' at Place des Arts to orchestral renditions of his iconic compositions, Montreal's music and arts scene are celebrating Mozart like never before. Join us as we explore a series of performances that promise to move, inspire, and mesmerize audiences with the brilliance of this legendary composer.

Dive into Mozart's Masterpieces: Unmissable Events in Montreal

Step into a world of musical magnificence with the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal as they present a series of stellar performances, merging classical elegance with contemporary flair. Under the baton of renowned conductors such as Kent Nagano and Dina Gilbert, and featuring an array of gifted artists, these events promise a soul-stirring experience. From the magical notes of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker to the captivating rhythms of Quebec folk tunes, audiences are invited to immerse themselves in a symphony of sounds that celebrate the timeless beauty of music.

A Harmonious Journey: Enchanting Concerts with the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal

The Orchestre symphonique de Montréal is set to dazzle audiences with a series of electrifying concerts, featuring everything from orchestral rock fusions to the classic elegance of concertos. This dynamic lineup showcases collaborations between renowned conductors, virtuoso soloists, and vibrant ensembles, offering something for every music lover. With performances ranging from the intensity of Tchaikovsky to the rhythms of Radio Radio, these events promise an exhilarating journey through the world of music.

Unforgettable Musical Experiences: From Orchestral Masterpieces to Hip-Hop Fusions

This spring, the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal (OSM) is set to transform Place des Arts into a hub of musical enchantment with an array of performances featuring timeless classics and contemporary works. From Disney's captivating Fantasia to the powerful emotional depth of Mozart's Requiem, this season promises a rich tapestry of sound and storytelling. With renowned artists like Rafael Payare, Isabelle Demers, and Benjamin Grosvenor gracing the stage, each event is a unique tribute to the world of classical music, offering audiences an unforgettable experience.

A Musical Odyssey at Place des Arts: Unveiling OSM’s 2025 Spring Series

The Orchestre symphonique de Montréal has curated a series of performances that promise to delight music enthusiasts at Place des Arts in Montreal. From the operatic intrigue of Mozart’s Così fan tutte to the sweeping grandeur of Mahler’s Song of the Earth, experience an array of performances featuring renowned artists such as Thomas Hampson, Kevin Chen, and Marie-Ange Nguci. Explore the symphonic journey with pieces by Mozart, Ravel, Rachmaninoff, and Prokofiev, along with the innovative compositions by Abel Selaocoe and Amy Beach.

A Symphony of Emotions: Montreal's Musical Extravaganza

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.

A Symphony of Events: The Unforgettable 2025 Season with the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal

2025 is set to be a remarkable year for the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal. From the brilliance of young musicians to the grandeur of legendary compositions, this season promises a rich tapestry of orchestral events. With events like the Concours musical international de Montréal, and performances of classics such as 'The Damnation of Faust' and 'Mahler’s Swan Song,' the season is a celebration of musical excellence. Join us as we explore the vibrant and varied offerings that promise to captivate audiences at Montreal's Place des Arts.

A Symphony of Talent: Highlights from the Montreal Symphony's 2025 Season

The Concours musical international de Montréal (CMIM) invites us to experience the excellence and artistry of the best young musicians of the new generation.

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Concours musical international de Montréal, Voice 2025 – Final

Place des Arts

Concours musical international de Montréal, Voice 2025 – Semifinal

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!

Mahler’s Song of the Earth With Rafael Payare

Prokofiev depicted the star-crossed romance of Romeo and Juliet with ardent lyricism, while in Four Spirits, Abel Selaocoe tells of South Africa with astounding creativity.

Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet

Half Moon Run and the OSM reunite for a unique performance at the Maison symphonique. An exceptional musical moment!

Half Moon Run Returns to the OSM 

Experience Vienna’s salon charm with Schubert’s ‘Trout’ Quintet and George Onslow’s chamber music gems, featuring pianist Godwin Friesen, OSM 2022 winner.

Schubert’s Famous Trout Quintet

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

Amy Beach rose to prominence as a composer with her “Gaelic” Symphony, a work which celebrates diverse legacies in America.

The OSM Performs Rachmaninoff and Amy Beach

Rising star Marie-Ange Nguci makes her OSM debut in Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto no. 3, a work of dazzling bravura.

Rachmaninoff’s Spectacular Piano Concerto no. 3

Benjamin Grosvenor, magician of the piano, will perform Ravel’s mesmerizing Concerto in G, under the direction of Sir Andrew Davis.

Ravel’s Brilliant  Piano Concerto

The “Jupiter” Symphony radiates majesty and awesome harmonic breadth. This concert devoted to Mozart brings together Rafael Payare and pianist Kevin Chen.

Mozart’s Majestic Jupiter Symphony

This concert version of Così fan tutte will spotlight renowned baritone Thomas Hampson, whose gift as a stage director is also featured in this performance.

Mozart’s Così fan tutte: The Dangerous Game of Love

The dramatic intensity and emotional candour expressed in Mozart’s Requiem are part of the fascination this work continues to arouse, more than 200 years after its first performance.

Payare Conducts Mozart’s Moving Requiem

Consummate virtuosa Isabelle Demers transforms the Grand Orgue Pierre-Béique into an opulent orchestra, bringing out its many facets.

Isabelle Demers Performs The Firebird

Experience the magic of Disney with the OSM and Fantasia, a timelessly spectacular animated film that journeys through the enthralling world of classical music.

Disney’s Fantasia

From the legends of Benin, celebrated by singer Angélique Kidjo, to the rustic landscapes unfolding in the “Pastoral” Symphony, join us for a delightful moment of escape!

The “Pastoral” Symphony and the Mythology of Glass

Beethoven’s “Pastoral” Symphony draws on the composer’s poetic flair to depict Nature. OSM Principal Clarinet Todd Cope takes the spotlight in Mozart’s Concerto.

Beethoven’s “Pastoral” Symphony 

Glass’ music fuels the imagination of Angélique Kidjo, who brings Beninese legends to life with her vocal depth and power.

Angélique Kidjo Sings Glass

After a remarkable performance in 2023, Tianyi Lu is back on the OSM podium to conduct Tchaikovsky’s poignant Symphony no. 5.

Tchaikovsky’s Poignant Symphony no. 5

The OSM joins forces with Radio Radio as the band plays its greatest hits. This is music that will have the hall “galloping” between the sounds of hip-hop, electronica, and … classical!

An Evening “À la Carte” with Radio Radio

Like a bracing and invigorating wind, this concert features Mendelssohn’s Concerto for Violin and Piano, an early masterpiece that brings together Andrew Wan and Charles Richard-Hamelin.

Charles Richard-Hamelin and Andrew Wan in Duo

Travel through three centuries of French music with organist and composer Jean-Baptiste Robin for a concert that will splendour on the Grand Orgue Pierre-Béique.

Ravel and Debussy on the Organ

The OSM, Rafael Payare, and pianist Marc-André Hamelin invite you to revisit the Roaring Twenties in America with this thrilling event!

An Evening with Gatsby

This concert will mark the OSM debut of brilliant young violinist Sergey Khatchatryan as he performs Tchaikovsky’s dramatic and lyric Concerto.

Tchaikovsky’s Lustrous Violin Concerto

The poetic discourse of Ravel and the sarcasm and humour of Prokofiev converge in this program showcasing the formidable artistry of Alisa Weilerstein and Rafael Payare.

Ravel and Prokofiev With Weilerstein and Payare

Whether for piano, violin, trumpet, even orchestra, get to know the concerto, a musical form that has travelled through the ages and continues to entice audiences.

My Dear Concerto!

Legendary Quebec metal band Vovoïd teams up with the OSM in two awesome concerts conducted by Dina Gilbert. Join us for this thrilling event!

Voïvod symphonique

Dalia Stasveska reunites with the OSM to conduct Dvořák’s Symphony no. 8 and Bruch’s magnificent Violin Concerto, featuring prodigious young soloist Randall Goosby.

Bruch’s Unforgettable Violin Concerto

Rafael Payare pursues his Mahler cycle with the composer’s Symphony no. 6, while the rich and soulful voice of Beth Taylor illuminates Alma Mahler’s Leider.

Mahler’s Sixth Symphony With Payare

Conducted by Dina Gilbert, the OSM performs Corigliano’s Oscar Award-winning music composed for The Red Violin, a drama directed by Quebec filmmaker François Girard.

The Red Violin

Join us for this musical celebration of the holidays, a concert during which you will be invited to sing along with the OSM Chorus—a soul-stirring experience!

Celebrations in Songs and Music

Blending the magic of The Nutcracker and the liveliness of Quebec folk tunes, an exciting concert awaits you as the OSM and Kent Nagano band together with the Le Vent du Nord.

Le Vent du Nord: A North Wind Blows through the OSM

A true hallmark of the holidays, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker delights all ages with its air of magic. Experience the enchantment with Kent Nagano and Marie-Nicole Lemieux.

‘Tis the Season with Kent Nagano

“One for all, all for one!” The soundtrack to The Three Musketeers will be played on the Grand Orgue Pierre-Béique by virtuoso improviser László Fassang.

The Three Musketeers in Cineconcert

Bruce Liu performs Scriabin’s sole Piano Concerto, with Richard Strauss’ expansive Alpine Symphony completing this program conducted by Rafael Payare.

Strauss’ Towering Alpine Symphony

As one of the Orchestra’s long-held traditions, the OSM Competition has helped to launch many of Canada’s leading soloists. Come out and support the winners of 2024!

Grand Finale of the 85th OSM Competition

Revel in a Latin American musical fiesta with actor Philippe-Audrey Larrue-St-Jacques and OSM Principal trumpet Paul Merkelo.

Colours of Latin America with the OSM

Conducted by Rafael Payare, this program of works steeped in South American colours and landscapes features OSM Principal Trumpet Paul Merkelo.

A Latin American Escapade with Rafael Payare

Pianist Simon Trpčeski makes his OSM debut in Beethoven’s majestic Concerto no. 5, conducted by Vasily Petrenko.

Beethoven’s “Imperial” Concerto no. 5

The Azrieli Competition rewards excellence, social engagement, and artistic creativity Discover works by the 2024 Azrieli Music Prizes’ four laureates.

Azrieli Music Prizes Gala Concert

Dive into the musical world of fantastic creatures as imagined by Debussy, Sierra, and Stravinsky. Dragons, unicorns, and the Firebird will come to life with illustrations by Frédéric Ellis.

Fantastic Creatures

Osmo Vänskä returns to the Maison symphonique to conduct Rachmaninoff’s sumptuous Symphony no. 2, a masterful interaction of intimacy and exuberance.

Rachmaninoff’s Enthralling Symphony no. 2

Admired for the exhilirating intensity of her playing, Karen Gomyo performs Schumann’s Violin Concerto. Elgar’s Enigma Variations complete this program conducted by John Storgårds.

Elgar’s Cryptic Enigma Variations

Delve into the world of France Beaudoin as she takes to the stage with OSM musicians, choristers, and several guests for an evening to remember.

France Beaudoin with the OSM: Live from the Maison symphonique

Vivaldi’s Baroque-era panache and Piazzolla’s Argentinian tango join in a dialogue that spans the seasons, under the direction of violinist and conductor Rosanne Philippens.

The Seasons of Vivaldi and Piazzola

Spielberg’s Jaws, featuring Oscar Award-winning music written by John Williams, becomes a truly spine-tingling experience with live accompaniment by the Orchestra!

Spielberg’s Jaws

Schumann’s Piano Concerto performed by the celebrated Daniil Trifonov and Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique are on the programme of this concert conducted by Rafael Payare.

Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique

Joined by renowned soloists and commanding colossal vocal and instrumental means, Rafael Payare conducts a monument of the post-Romantic repertoire: Schoenberg’s Gurre-Lieder.

Payare Conducts Schoenberg’s Gurre-Lieder

The OSM invites you to celebrate Robert Charlebois’ 80th anniversary!

Charlebois Symphonique: An Epic Celebration with the OSM!

Come and immerse yourself in the BRIGHT and lively atmosphere of the DUO theme, designed especially for you, our guests in search of daring experiences. As soon as you arrive, the red carpet and champagne await you. Then let yourself be transported by a unique symphony concert where music and movement merge in perfect harmony.

Bal d’une nuit d’été ÉCLATÉ – DUO 

The Orchestre symphonique de Montréal will bring its 90th season to a thrilling conclusion with this masterful evening event.

The Majestic Organ Symphony by Saint-Saëns

Connect with OSM musicians and fellow concertgoers over a glass of wine and engage in lively conversation about the repertoire and themes of the evening’s performance, “Beethoven’s Heroic Symphony no. 3 with Kent Nagano.”

Post Concert Night

The OSM presents Innere Musik, an immersive portrait of the Grand Orgue Pierre-Béique. Be transported by Johann Sebastian Bach’s Fantasy and Fugue in G minor as you journey through the 6,489 pipes of this massive instrument!

Innere Musik

Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring and Ravel’s Bolero are two signature works of the OSM’s repertoire. But have you ever heard them played on the organ?

Stravinsky and Ravel on the Organ

The emotional centre or life-powering organ, numerous compositions have been inspired by the heart. In Another Little Piece of My Heart, Montgomery evokes passion and palpitations, while Murphy’s Strum is punctuated by a steady pulse of pizzicato notes similar to a heartbeat, and Glass’ celebrated “Mishima” Quartet is carried along by an uninterrupted stream of subtle emotions.

At the Heart of the string quartet

Under the direction of Jean-Marie Zeitouni, the OSM welcomes Patrick Norman to the stage for one final lap to round off 55 years of an outstanding career.

The OSM Applauds Patrick Norman’s 55-Year Career

After choosing from a selection of works by Vivaldi, Dvořák and Ana Sokolović, you will find yourself on the podium of the Maison symphonique in front of a string orchestra of OSM musicians. Follow the score and use your virtual baton to spotlight different sections of the orchestra and listen closer to their unique sonorities.

Virtual Reality: Partitura

Experience the grand celebration of the piano during the Final of the Piano 2024 edition of the Concours Musical International de Montréal on May 15 and 16, 2024, at the Maison symphonique de Montréal. After a brilliant First Round and Semifinal of the competition, the Grand Final has arrived for the six finalists selected by the grand jury of the CMIM.

Final of the Concours musical international de Montréal – Piano 2024

Through listening and discussion, the evening’s host will guide you through the highlights of selected concerts’ repertoire. Come learn more about these programs’ main musical themes and explore symphonic works with other concertgoers.

Club d’écoute

Glass’ Double Piano Concerto, written for these two artists, is a work in which soloists and orchestra weave a tapestry of sound in constant flux.

The Double Concerto for Two Pianos by Glass

The OSM is thrilled to welcome the TSO and its conductor Gustavo Gimeno in a program showcasing the extraordinary voice of mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo.

Emily D’Angelo and the TSO at the Maison Symphonique

Dive into the world of classical music with the immersive virtual reality experiences of Partitura and Innere Musik. Explore the inner workings of classical music like never before! These digital projects provide you with a unique opportunity to experience symphonic music from the inside and to demystify the language of classical music!

Virtual reality

Frank Peter Zimmermann, one of the greatest violinists of our time, performs Brahms’ quasi-symphonic Violin Concerto, in which the orchestra and the soloist engage in dialogue as equal partners. Here, the violin, with its high-energy gusto, spurs the orchestra to a playful, Romani-inspired finale. A contemporary of Brahms, Emilie Mayer, a composer well worth discovering, expresses her fascinating musical personality in her Symphony no. 7, a highly original work replete with surges of passion.

Zimmermann and Brahms’ Masterful Violin Concerto

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!

The Damnation of Faust: A Quest for Eternal Youth

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.

Brahms & Dvořák : The Splendour of Romanticism

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!

Labadie, Faust, and the Viennese Classics

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.

Mahler’s Swan Song

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.

Thus Spoke Zarathustra

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.

Schubert, Intensely!

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.

Isle of the Dead at the OSM

Throwing an invitation to Salebarbes is like making sure that the party will rise! The year 2025 of this group has been spectacular and the OSM is happy to welcome them on stage at the opening of its Pop series, to celebrate their huge success in a symphonic version. Under the direction of conductor Dina Gilbert and with symphonic arrangements by Antoine Gratton, get ready to kick your feet and live an evening you will remember for a long time.

Salebarbes meets the OSM

The Phantom of the Opera is still captivating audiences a century later! Experience this 1925 fantasy film classic like never before, with musical accompaniment by organist Jason Roberts. Haunting the depths of a Parisian opera house, the disfigured phantom—both a musical genius and a tragic outcast—is consumed by his obsession with music and a particular singer. This thrilling film concert blends drama and suspense with masterful organ improvisation for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

The Phantom of the Opera

Following his enthusiastic reception at the 2024 Virée classique summer concert, the talented oud player Joseph Tawadros makes his grand return to the OSM for two extraordinary concerts. He will be performing a dynamic piece inspired by the melodic modes of the Middle East, known as maqams, offering a vibrant and energetic musical experience. This powerful composition pairs seamlessly with the rhythmic drive of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, promising an evening filled with electrifying rhythms.

A Musical Journey with Joseph Tawadros

This program offers a shining homage to French mélodies from the Belle Époque in a highly anticipated rendezvous with soprano Véronique Gens. Let yourself be swept away by the poetry of the songs and the vocal elegance and refined artistry of one of today’s foremost interpreters of French mélodies. A must-see concert for aficionados of music and French song.

Véronique Gens and the French Mélodie

Since its founding in 1940, the OSM Competition has been a launchpad for some of Canada’s most brilliant soloists, including Bruce Liu, James Ehnes, and Karina Gauvin. This year, the 86th edition will spotlight vocalists. Join us for an extraordinary evening as the finalists delight the audience with a varied program showcasing their unique abilities. With the OSM accompanying and Jacques Lacombe conducting, these talented young artists will fill the hall with passion and energy. The unforgettable evening will culminate in the dramatic announcement of the Grand Prize winner!

Grand Finale of the OSM Competition – 2025 Edition – Voice

Embark on a philosophical journey with the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal and the OSM Chorus as they accompany Stanley Kubrick’s iconic sci-fi masterpiece, 2001: A Space Odyssey. This fusion of futurism and poetry takes you through humanity’s evolution, from prehistory to the space age, guided by an enigmatic alien monolith. As the sentient supercomputer HAL 9000 turns on the crew of the spaceship Discovery One, astronaut Bowman becomes the last survivor. He passes through a cosmic gateway and is reborn as a higher life form symbolizing the next stage of humanity’s evolution. Stunning visuals are brought to life by Johann Strauss’ Blue Danube, works by Richard Strauss and the captivating compositions of György Ligeti. A cinematic and musical experience you won’t want to miss!

2001: A Space Odyssey

Ravel’s Tombeau de Couperin pays homage to the rich French musical inheritance of the 18th century and to the composer’s comrades who fell in battle. Similarly, Escher’s composition honours Ravel in a distinctly French manner. Inspired by Baroque dances, both works feature intricately textured and nuanced instrumentation.

Immortal Ravel

Discover the OSM soloists in a unique concert featuring Principal Viola Victor Fournelle-Blain and Concertmaster Andrew Wan, who will perform and lead the orchestra. For his wife’s birthday, Wagner composed a heartfelt tribute to love, a piece brimming with warmth and tenderness. These sentiments also resonate in the Andante of Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante. Don’t miss the opportunity to see these two exceptional OSM musicians shine on stage!

Carte Blanche to Andrew Wan

Embark on an emotional journey through two profoundly moving masterpieces. First, soloist Nicolas Altstaedt will bring Elgar’s Cello Concerto to life with powerful intensity, followed by a performance of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6, a piece brimming with nostalgia and inner drama. From Tchaikovsky’s turbulent passion to Elgar’s poignant melancholy, every note unveils the complexities of human anguish and fear.

Tchaikovsky’s “Pathétique” Symphony

Discover the Happy Symphonic Hour version of our December 3 program and be swept away by nostalgic European sounds and iconic Hollywood melodies. This 60-minute concert also offers a chance to meet comedian Philippe-Audrey Larrue-St-Jacques, who will be hosting the evening. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to discover—or rediscover—the incredible violinist Simone Lamsma, acclaimed for her outstanding performance in 2024.

From Europe to the Movies

Exiled in the United States, Bartók and Korngold poured their longing for home into their concertos—one steeped in Hungarian traditions, the other blending Viennese charm with Hollywood melodies. Showcasing the brilliant Simone Lamsma, this concert promises an enchanting journey full of emotion, cinematic splendour, and symphonic brilliance. A magical evening where mesmerizing melodies will allow you to discover a rich cultural heritage.

Echoes of Europe in Hollywood

In this concert, Handel’s masterful storytelling brings the narrative of Christ to vivid musical life. The powerful chorus elevates this iconic work with extraordinary energy and depth. This is a unique chance to experience one of Handel’s greatest masterpieces under the baton of Rafael Payare—a holiday classic not to be missed!

The Messiah: Hallelujah!

Fred Pellerin and Kent Nagano join forces once again for the 7th edition of their beloved symphonic tales! The colourful characters of Saint-Élie-de-Caxton return with enchanting adventures, where the poetic charm of Quebec’s national storyteller blends with soaring orchestral passages.

Fred Pellerin’s Traditional Holiday Tale

Let yourself be swept away by the masterful touch of eight-time Grammy winner Emanuel Ax as he brings his deep sensitivity to Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No.3, a fascinating bridge between the elegance of Classicism and the passion of Romanticism. Then, dive into the grandeur of Prokofiev’s Symphony No.5, a wartime masterpiece brimming with triumphant energy. The evening also features the world premiere of a new work by rising star Isabella Gellis, renowned for her refined and expressive compositions.

Emanuel Ax Plays Beethoven

Step into the exciting world of Duke Ellington’s Harlem, then journey through the deep emotions of Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 3. The violin takes centre stage as Stravinsky looks back to the 18th century in his Concerto, brought to life by the captivating Alina Ibragimova. This program explores the full spectrum of orchestral colour, blending jazz, energy, and heartfelt expression. A dazzling musical adventure through diverse musical landscapes!

The Orchestra According to Duke Ellington and Rachmaninov

Every two years, millions of people are inspired by the incredible feats of Olympic athletes. This concert invites audiences young and old to experience the stirring emotion of national anthems and the deep connection between rhythm and breath. Throughout history, music and sport have gone hand in hand—join us as we celebrate their enduring bond in spectacular fashion!

Olympic Symphony

Barbara Hannigan returns for an electrifying evening, bringing the intoxicating rhythms of Offenbach and the sultry nostalgia of the tango in Youkali. Renowned for her stunning performances at the Maison symphonique in 2022 and 2024, the Canadian conductor and soprano is set to mesmerize with her extraordinary talent and magnetic presence in this bold and captivating program.

The Flamboyant Barbara Hannigan

Barbara Hannigan has some exciting surprises lined up for you in this edition of the Concerts éclatés series. Prepare for a vibrant and unforgettable evening where music and dance take centre stage, featuring works by Offenbach, Weill, Glenn Miller, and other carefully curated selections chosen by the conductor herself.

Dance the Night Away with Barbara Hannigan

Embark on a journey to the stars in this unique concert where the circus arts seamlessly blend with the majestic sounds of the Grand Orgue Pierre-Béique. Immerse yourself in this extraordinary spectacle, accompanied by the music of Philip Glass and Hans Zimmer’s awe-inspiring Interstellar Suite. A true feast for the eyes and the ears!

Stellar: the organ’s balancing act

This program brings together three contrasting works, each exploring the theme of hope in the face of hardship. López and Childs delve into the pain of displacement and loss, while Mahler, in his quest for a transcendent refuge, paints a luminous picture of the heavenly joys of childhood. A compelling program that uses the power of classical music to inspire reflection on humanity, spiritual yearning, and the beauty of life.

López, Childs, and Mahler: Hope in the Heart of Exile

This program creates a bridge between the 18th and 21st centuries, offering a striking contrast between the classical elegance of Mozart and Bologne and the dramatic intensity of Banks and López. Each piece highlights a distinct facet of the string quartet. Steven Banks, the renowned ambassador of classical saxophone, will also demonstrate how his instrument adds a unique flavour when paired with strings!

Strings and Saxophone

Create unforgettable memories with your children by offering them a day full of surprises and musical discoveries. The Bal des enfants offers a total immersion into the world of music, combining entertainment and education for a rewarding family experience and culminating in a symphonic concert conducted by Rafael Payare.

Orchestre symphonique de Montréal

17 - 18 Sep, 2025

The Damnation of Faust: A Quest for Eternal Youth

25 - 27 Sep, 2025

Brahms & Dvořák : The Splendour of Romanticism

8 - 9 Oct, 2025

Labadie, Faust, and the Viennese Classics

15 - 16 Oct, 2025

Mahler’s Swan Song

22 - 25 Oct, 2025

Thus Spoke Zarathustra

Jun 25, 2025

Concours musical international de Montréal, Voice 2025 – Final

3 - 4 Jun, 2025

Concours musical international de Montréal, Voice 2025 – Semifinal

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Orchestre symphonique de Montréal