OM : L’Italie sacrée de Vivaldi à Puccini à la Maison symphonique
by Rédaction PAN M 360
La chaleur ensoleillée de l’Italie imprègne la beauté vocale de sa musique, reconnue pour son élégance et son lyrisme naturels. Ce concert du Chœur Métropolitain met en lumière une tradition où la voix occupe une place centrale et profondément humaine. La Messa di Gloria de Puccini révèle déjà la richesse mélodique et la force expressive qui feront la renommée du compositeur. En complément, le programme présente deux piliers du vaste héritage choral italien : Monteverdi et Vivaldi, deux compositeurs vénitiens dont la musique sacrée, toujours lumineuse, a traversé les siècles.
Italy’s sun-kissed warmth is reflected in the vocal beauty of its music, celebrated for its natural lyricism and elegance. This Chœur Métropolitain concert highlights a tradition where the voice plays a central, deeply human role. Puccini’s Messa di Gloria, reveals the melodic richness and expressive power that would go on to define his fame. The program also features two pillars of Italy’s choral heritage: Monteverdi and Vivaldi, Venetian composers whose sacred music continues to shine across the centuries.
Programme/program
PUCCINI, Messa di Gloria MONTEVERDI, Beatus vir MONTEVERDI, Laudate pueri VIVALDI, Laetatus sum VIVALDI, Laudate Dominum omnes gentes
OM : John Williams et Rachmaninov à la Maison symphonique
by Rédaction PAN M 360
Bien que mieux connu pour sa musique de film, John Williams est aussi l’un des compositeurs de concertos les plus prolifiques de notre époque. Son Concerto pour trompette met brillamment en valeur cet instrument éblouissant, ici interprété par la virtuose Matilda Lloyd. La suite tirée du film Far and Away crée un pont avec les traditions européennes en puisant dans les sonorités de la musique irlandaise. La Deuxième symphonie de Rachmaninov partage avec la musique de Williams un langage immédiatement émouvant, fait de longues mélodies mémorables et d’une profonde nostalgie romantique. Considérée comme le chef-d’œuvre du compositeur, elle compte parmi les dernières grandes symphonies du romantisme tardif, atteignant un équilibre remarquable entre accessibilité, richesse expressive et complexité musicale.
Though best known for his film scores, John Williams is also among the most prolific concerto composers of our time. His Trumpet Concerto brilliantly showcases this dazzling instrument, performed here by virtuoso Matilda Lloyd. The suite from Far and Away creates a bridge with European traditions, drawing on Irish musical colours. Like Williams’s music, Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2 features a language that moves listeners instantly, with long, memorable melodies and profound romantic nostalgia. Considered the composer’s masterpiece, it stands among the last great symphonies of late Romanticism, achieving a remarkable balance between accessibility, expressive richness and musical complexity.
Programme
WILLIAMS, Far and Away : Suite WILLIAMS, Concerto pour trompette RACHMANINOV, Symphonie n° 2
Program
WILLIAMS, Far and Away : Suite WILLIAMS, Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra RACHMANINOV, Symphony No. 2
Depuis la sortie du film Harry Potter à l’école des sorciers, il y a 25 ans, l’engouement pour la célèbre série fantastique et ses personnages de Poudlard n’a cessé de croître. Redécouvrez les mélodies légendaires de ces films emblématiques, composées par John Williams. Que vous soyez Serpentard, Gryffondor, Poufsouffle ou Serdaigle, revêtez les couleurs de votre maison et venez vivre cette aventure en famille!
Since the release of the film Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone 25 years ago, the beloved fantasy series and its Hogwarts characters have continued to captivate audiences. Relive the unforgettable melodies from these iconic films, composed by John Williams. Whether you belong to Slytherin, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, or Ravenclaw, don your house colours and bring the entire family for this magical adventure!
Lauréat du Concours OSM en 2022 et du Concours international de piano de Leeds, le Canadien Jaeden Izik-Dzurko amorce une brillante carrière pianistique. Venez l’écouter dans ce concert au format réduit animé par Philippe-Audrey Larrue-St-Jacques, dans le Concerto de Grieg : une œuvre qui séduit par son irrésistible mélange de lyrisme et de vigueur. Laissez-vous ensuite charmer par la féérie de L’Oiseau de feu, dont les somptueuses couleurs orchestrales créent un véritable enchantement sonore.
Canadian pianist Jaeden Izik-Dzurko, who launched a stellar career after winning the 2022 OSM Competition and the Leeds International Piano Competition, takes the stage in this intimate concert hosted by Philippe-Audrey Larrue-St-Jacques. Hear him perform Grieg’s Piano Concerto, a piece known for its captivating mix of lyricism and vigour. Then, allow yourself to be swept away by the enchanting beauty of The Firebird, where lush orchestral colours paint a mesmerizing sonic landscape.
Programme
Edvard Grieg, Concerto pour piano, op. 16 (30 min) Igor Stravinsky, L’Oiseau de feu, Suite pour orchestre (1919) (23 min)
Program
Edvard Grieg, Concerto for Piano, Op. 16 (30 min) Igor Stravinsky, The Firebird, Suite for Orchestra (1919) (23 min)
Le chef émérite de l’OSM, Kent Nagano, dirige le poignant Requiem allemand de Brahms, tel qu’il fut donné en 1868 à Brême en Allemagne. Cette version historique, présentée pour la toute première fois à l’OSM, intègre des extraits d’œuvres baroques, de la Passion selon St Mathieu de Bach et du Messie de Handel. Ces pièces musicales mettent en perspective l’héritage de Brahms et soulignent le lien du compositeur avec la grande tradition musicale germanique. Une œuvre qui invite à une réflexion profonde sur la vie et la mort. Un rendez-vous musical unique !
OSM Conductor Emeritus Kent Nagano leads a moving performance of Brahms’ A German Requiem, as it was presented in 1868 in Bremen, Germany. Making its debut at the OSM, this historic recreation includes excerpts from Baroque masterpieces such as Bach’s St. Matthew Passion and Handel’s Messiah. These musical selections offer insight into Brahms’ artistic heritage and underscore his profound connection to the rich German musical tradition. This masterpiece invites deep contemplation on life and death, promising a truly exceptional musical journey.
Programme
Johannes Brahms, Un Requiem allemand, sur des textes de l’Écriture sainte, op.45 (version Bremen 1868) Johann Sebastian Bach, Passion selon Saint Mathieu, BWV 244 : « Erbarme dich, mein Gott » Georg Friedrich Handel, Le Messie, HWV 56 (orch. W. A. Mozart) – extraits Œuvres pour violon et orgue de Bach, Tartini et Schumann
Program
Johannes Brahms, A German Requiem, from words of the Holy Scripture, Op. 45 (1868 Bremen version) Johann Sebastian Bach, St. Matthew Passion, BWV 244: “Erbarme dich, mein Gott” (6 min) George Frideric Handel, Messiah, HWV 56 (orch. W. A. Mozart) – excerpts
Successful Evening at The OSM: Steven Banks Makes The Saxophone Shine
by Jeremy Fortin
On Wednesday evening, the OSM presented the concert López, Childs, and Mahler: Hope in Exile, a rich and diverse program that explored the different facets of classical music.
The first part of the concert featured two contemporary pieces, beginning with Perú Negro by Jimmy López, composer-in-residence with the OSM. This six-movement work was the ideal way to start the concert. Drawing inspiration from Afro-Peruvian music, López takes us on a journey through Peruvian culture in a rhythmic atmosphere, punctuated with effects and strongly supported by percussion.
The concert continues with American saxophonist Steven Banks, who is visiting to perform composer Billy Childs’ saxophone concerto, Diaspora. The piece, which traces the exile of the African American people, illustrates a dark world rooted in fear and internal strife for this people sent by ship to America by slave traders.
Steven Banks’ performance lived up to expectations. Not only did the saxophonist deliver a series of virtuoso passages, but he also demonstrated great sensitivity during the cadences surrounding the three sections of the piece. After two dramatic movements, the work ends on a much more joyful note, illustrating the resilience of the African American people.
As for the second part of the concert, Rafael Payare continues his cycle of Mahler symphonies with the composer’s Fourth. If you are used to associating Mahler with drama, think again, because this is certainly not the case with this symphony. Here, Mahler uses a much more classical language than in some of his other works.
Payare, for his part, successfully illustrated the numerous changes in character, as well as the wide range of nuances required to bring the piece to life. The concert ended with the fourth movement, which featured soprano Nikola Hillebrand, who stepped in to replace Vuvu Mpofu, who was unable to attend. The German soprano gave a brilliant performance of this final movement, offering a particularly interesting vocal texture.
A very beautiful idea to combine the organ with the arts of the circus! At first glance, one might think that it is the organ that needs the acrobatics of the other to increase its visibility and popularity. But once seated in the packed Maison symphonique here in Montreal, and paying attention to the “vibe,” one realises that quite a few people were there to enjoy the organ and the music offered in the program. Particularly the excerpts from the music of the film Interstellar by Christopher Nolan, which Hans Zimmer memorably dressed with a score of minimalist/epic colours, where the organ takes a lot of space. On its own, this film music has contributed more than any “democratisation” activity to give a new “coolness” to the king of instruments.
In short, the large audience seemed to be waiting for it. And there was no disappointment, the soloist Jean-Willy Kunz showcasing his most beautiful and grand gestures to powerfully fill the entire hall. The final resonance had no time to unfold before the thousands of people were already applauding.
100 years of organ music
Beyond this iconic music, the audience was able to hear a selected journey through the last hundred years at the organ: the Cortège et Litanie by Marcel Dupré (1922), the Banquet céleste (1928) by Messiaen, works by Philip Glass (Mad Rush and Études 6 and 8), Spiegel im spiegel by Arvo Pärt, and two pieces I was not familiar with: the Toccata Andromeda (1999) by Paul Halley and the very recent Limina Luminis (2023) by Olivia Belli.
Stellaire : l’orgue fait son cirque – crédit photo : Gabriel FournierStellaire : l’orgue fait son cirque – crédit photo : Gabriel FournierStellaire : l’orgue fait son cirque – crédit photo : Gabriel FournierStellaire : l’orgue fait son cirque – crédit photo : Gabriel FournierStellaire : l’orgue fait son cirque – crédit photo : Gabriel FournierStellaire : l’orgue fait son cirque crédit photo: Gabriel Fournier
Symbiotic acrobatics
The acrobatics offered by Cirque Le Monastère were quite classic, but their union with the music brought a touch of often seductive poetry. I was particularly struck by the very beautiful hair suspension act on bungee, which, with Pärt’s ethereal music, lifted the audience with it into a very appealing and serene weightlessness. Also, the MultiLED cable act, in which Manolo Gonzalo twirled to a Glass Etude, had a rather attractive cyber-chic vibe.
The Cyr wheel number was perfectly suited to fit with Glass’s Mad Rush and its fluttering arpeggios in perfect harmony with the swirling rounds performed by artist Cléa Perion. Camille Tremblay dared to do something that probably no one had done before: a balancing act partly performed on the organ keyboard! Jean-Willy Kunz did not seem too thrown off by it. The finale, with all the artists gathered and Olivia Belli’s post-minimalist music, offered a satisfying conclusion.
The designers of the show had the good idea not to feel the need to accompany each piece with choreography. Thus, Cortège et Litanie, Le Banquet céleste, and part of Interstellar could be appreciated simply as music, played on stage by Jean-Willy Kunz. The organ therefore did not serve exclusively as a mere backdrop, but rather as an equal partner with the circus.
A beautiful idea, simple and effective, successfully executed.
OSM : López, Childs et Mahler – l’espoir au cœur de l’exil
by Rédaction PAN M 360
Bien que contrastées, les trois œuvres présentées au programme s’harmonisent autour d’une réflexion sur l’espoir face à la souffrance. López et Childs plongent au cœur de la douleur du déracinement et de la séparation, tandis que Mahler, en quête d’un Paradis unificateur, nous transporte vers une vision lumineuse des joies célestes de l’enfance. Un programme fascinant qui vous invite à réfléchir sur l’humanité, l’aspiration spirituelle et la beauté de la vie à travers la musique classique.
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.
Programme
Jimmy López, Perú Negro (17 min) Billy Childs, Diaspora, Concerto pour saxophone et orchestre (23 min) Gustav Mahler, Symphonie no 4 (54 min)
Program
Jimmy López, Perú Negro (17 min) Billy Childs, Diaspora, Concerto for Saxophone and Orchestra (23 min) Gustav Mahler, Symphony No. 4 (54 min)
Rachmaninov : le Concerto pour piano no 2 et Les Cloches à la Maison symphonique
by Rédaction PAN M 360
Vivez une soirée inoubliable de puissance et d’émotion avec deux chefs-d’œuvre de Sergueï Rachmaninov. Le Concerto pour piano no 2, l’une des œuvres les plus célèbres du répertoire, séduit par ses mélodies envoûtantes et son lyrisme intense, tandis que Les Cloches, fresque chorale spectaculaire inspirée d’Edgar Allan Poe, déploie une palette sonore riche et dramatique. Du romantisme ardent du concerto aux couleurs évocatrices et grandioses de Les Cloches, ce programme offre un voyage musical captivant, entre virtuosité, poésie et puissance orchestrale. Interprété par l’Orchestre Philharmonique et Chœur des Mélomanes sous la direction de Francis Choinière, ce concert met en vedette le pianiste de renommée internationale Alain Lefèvre, ainsi qu’une distribution vocale exceptionnelle incluant Sydney Baedke (soprano), Sam Champagne (ténor) et Mikelis Rogers (baryton).
Experience an unforgettable evening of power and emotion with two masterpieces by Sergei Rachmaninoff. The Piano Concerto No. 2, one of the most beloved works in the repertoire, captivates with its sweeping melodies and rich lyricism, while The Bells, a spectacular choral symphony inspired by Edgar Allan Poe, unfolds with vivid colors and dramatic intensity. From the passionate romanticism of the concerto to the evocative and monumental sound world of The Bells, this program offers a compelling musical journey of virtuosity, poetry, and orchestral brilliance. Performed by the Orchestre Philharmonique et Chœur des Mélomanes under the direction of Francis Choinière, this concert features internationally renowned pianist Alain Lefèvre, alongside an outstanding vocal cast including Sydney Baedke (soprano), Sam Champagne (tenor), and Mikelis Rogers (baritone).
Programme
Sergueï Rachmaninov, Concerto pour piano no 2 Sergueï Rachmaninov, Les Cloches
Program
Sergueï Rachmaninov, Piano Concerto No. 2 Sergueï Rachmaninov, The Bells
Nous qui rêvons. Une expérience immersive célébrant la beauté de la nature canadienne. Symphonie du vivant est un hommage orchestral et cinématographique à la beauté de la vie. À l’occasion de la grande première du film projeté en concert, la musique évocatrice d’Anaïs Larocque, créée en étroite collaboration avec la cinéaste Marie-Julie Dallaire, sera interprétée par l’OM sous la direction de Yannick Nézet-Séguin. Idée originale de l’explorateur Mario Cyr, qui signe les magnifiques images sous-marines, cette immersion sensorielle et émouvante au cœur de la vie des animaux propose une vision égalitaire de la cohabitation sur Terre de tous les vivants.
We who dream. An immersive experience celebrating the beauty of Canadian nature. Symphony of Life is an orchestral and cinematic tribute to the beauty of the living world. For the film’s world premiere, presented in concert, Anaïs Larocque’s evocative music, created in close collaboration with filmmaker Marie-Julie Dallaire, will be performed by the OM under the baton of Yannick Nézet-Séguin. Imagined by explorer Mario Cyr, who brings the film’s magnificent underwater imagery to life, this sensory and moving immersion into the animal world presents an egalitarian vision of the coexistence of all living beings on Earth.
Programme
Musique d’Anaïs Larocque (Orchestration de François Vallières) – Première mondiale, commande de l’OM
Program
Music by AnaïsLarocque (Orchestration by François Vallières) – World premiere, commissioned by the OM
En route pour un voyage au milieu des étoiles où les arts du cirque jonglent habilement avec la multitude de sonorités du Grand Orgue Pierre-Béique. Découvrez ce spectacle inédit au son des musiques de Philip Glass et de la spectaculaire Suite Interstellar de Hans Zimmer. Ouvrez grand vos yeux et vos oreilles!
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!
OM : Drôlement débrouillards à la Maison symphonique
by Rédaction PAN M 360
Entrez dans l’univers de Drôlement débrouillards avec la biologiste et humoriste Vikie Pedneault. La Maison symphonique est le prochain terrain de jeu de l’animatrice attachante de Télé-Québec! C’est avec l’Orchestre Métropolitain qu’elle se débrouillera pour faire vivre au public de grandes émotions, en dirigeant pour la première fois un orchestre symphonique, son rêve ultime! Y parviendra-t-elle? Drôlement amusante et scientifiquement rigoureuse, Vikie sera aidée de son complice Benoit Gauthier pour apprendre à faire vibrer 60 musiciens d’un même souffle… en évitant les fausses notes. Alliant grands classiques et surprises éclatantes, ce concert saura égayer jeunes et moins jeunes. Spectacle en français recommandé pour les enfants de 6 à 12 ans.
Step into the world of Drôlement débrouillards with biologist and comedian Vikie Pedneault, as the Maison symphonique becomes the beloved Télé-Québec host’s next playground. For the first time, she will conduct a symphony orchestra, her ultimate dream, leading the OM in a performance filled with emotion. Will she succeed? With her quick wit and scientific precision, Vikie will work with Benoit Gauthier to make 60 musicians vibrate as one… and avoid any wrong notes! Combining classics and brilliant surprises, this concert will delight audiences of all ages. Performance in French recommended for children aged 6 to 12.
Programme
SAUGUETI, Prologue SMETANA, Ouverture BARTÓKII, Giuoco delle coppie BRAHMS, Danse hongroise nº 5 PRICEI, Allegretto CLYNE, Restless Oceans TCHAÏKOVSKI, Roméo et Juliette COULTHARDII, The Contented House
Program
SAUGUETI, Prologue SMETANA, Ouverture BARTÓKII, Giuoco delle coppie BRAHMS, Hungarian Dance No. 5 PRICEI, Allegretto CLYNE, Restless Oceans TCHAIKOVSKY, Romeo and Juliet COULTHARDII, The Contented House
