Exils #3 is the third instalment of an ambitious thematic series at Le Corum in Montpellier, presented by the Chœur et l'Orchestre national Montpellier Occitanie under the direction of George Jackson. The evening's programme draws together works by composers who experienced exile, persecution or displacement, creating an emotionally charged and politically resonant concert.
The programme opens with Andrzej Panufnik's Katyń Epitaph, a tribute to the victims of the 1940 massacre, followed by Arnold Schoenberg's Friede auf Erden, a pacifist choral work. Guest soloist Ana de la Vega performs the Flute Concerto by Elżbieta Sikora — a co-commissioned world premiere — in which the virtuoso flutist engages with an orchestra of contemporary colours.
Further works include Julius Eastman's minimalist homage to Joan of Arc, Franz Schreker's Schwanengesang (composed under Nazi persecution), Isang Yun's Tapis pour cordes (the Korean composer was abducted by South Korean secret services in 1967), Malek Jandali's Freedom, and Kareem Roustom's evocation of the traditional Palestinian Dabke dance.
The concert takes place on Friday 27 November 2026 at 20:00 at Le Corum, Esplanade Charles De Gaulle, 34000 Montpellier. Tickets are available via the Opéra Orchestre national Montpellier website.
Lineup
Chœur et l'Orchestre national Montpellier Occitanie
The Chœur et l'Orchestre national Montpellier Occitanie is the resident orchestra and chorus of Montpellier, performing a wide-ranging repertoire from baroque to contemporary works at Le Corum and on tour.
George Jackson
George Jackson serves as the conductor leading this third instalment of the Exils series, described in the source as bringing inspired direction to the programme.
Ana de la Vega
Ana de la Vega is a flutist who performs the Flute Concerto by Elżbieta Sikora in this concert, a co-commissioned creation in which she engages as a virtuoso soloist with the contemporary-hued orchestra.
Location