By: Shelley
On November 15 and 16, 2024, Place des Arts hosted a captivating performance featuring two monumental works: Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Requiem in D minor. Set in the intimate Maison Symphonie, renowned for its superb acoustics, this concert promised to be an unforgettable experience for classical music enthusiasts, and it did not disappoint.
The evening unfolded with Beethoven’s iconic Symphony No. 5, performed by L’Orchestre Philharmonique et Chœur des Mélomanes. This orchestra and choir, the first of its kind established in Montreal in 40 years, is dedicated to inspiring a new generation of music lovers. Their commitment to presenting major vocal and symphonic works was evident, and they aim not only to entertain but they also educate through workshops and scholarships.
Following the intermission, the audience was treated to Mozart’s Requiem, featuring a stellar lineup of soloists: soprano Myriam Leblanc, mezzo-soprano Allyson McHardy, tenor Andrew Haji, and baritone Geoffroy Salvas.
Together, they united their powerful voices with a choir of 100 choristers, all accompanied by 52 musicians on stage, under the expert direction of conductor Francis Choiniere. The combination of these magnificent talents ensured that the Requiem resonated deeply, both emotionally and spiritually.
With a total runtime of nearly two hours, including an intermission, this concert provided a perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of classical music. The intimate setting of Maison Symphonie enhanced the experience, allowing the audience to fully appreciate the nuances of both Beethoven’s and Mozart’s masterpieces.
This evening was the commencement of this young ensemble’s 10th season. Two more forthcoming concerts have been scheduled, starting with Gustav Holst’s iconic The Planets, a monumental orchestral suite, on Sunday, March 9, 2025. This performance will feature the full OPCM choir, complemented by an impressive ensemble of 90 musicians, promising an unforgettable experience. The evening will also showcase the stirring Gloria by British composer Karl Jenkins, a powerful choral work that will be brought to life by the 100-strong OPCM choir.
Then, on Saturday, May 24, 2025, a spectacular evening awaits as soprano Sarah Dufresne and mezzo-soprano Allyson McHardy join forces for a rendition of Gustav Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony No. 2. The two distinguished vocalists will be joined on stage by a vast orchestra and choir of over 200 performers. This monumental piece, which also featured prominently in the acclaimed 2023 film Maestro about Leonard Bernstein, promises to be a breathtaking celebration of life, death, and rebirth.
In conclusion, this performance was not just a concert; it was a celebration of the rich tradition of classical music and a testament to the dedication of L’Orchestre Philharmonique et Chœur des Mélomanes in providing an evening filled with passion, artistry, and sublime music.
Tickets for the OPCM’s 2024-2025 season are available on the Place des arts website, at 514 842-2112 or 1 866 842-2112.
