The Orchestre Métropolitain's beloved annual outdoor concert returns to the foot of Mount Royal on August 5, 2026, this year marking the 150th anniversary of Parc du Mont-Royal. The event runs from 17:00 to 21:30 and is presented by CN in collaboration with Le Groupe Maurice.
The evening begins at 17:00 with a Symphonic Picnic on the Le Groupe Maurice stage, featuring a variety of musical performances, a BAnQ listening lounge with archival sound and visual recordings, heritage and historical mediation with Héritage Montréal, as well as kiosks and animation activities.
At 19:30, the main concert begins on the principal stage under the baton of conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin. The programme celebrates the emblematic park and includes a world premiere by composer Ana Sokolović, a collaboration with singer-songwriter Elisapie, and a performance by Les Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal.
A scenic design inspired by the park's natural richness will be complemented by archival video projections, enriching the audience's experience. Cultural mediation activities are offered in partnership with BAnQ and Héritage Montréal.
Lineup
Orchestre Métropolitain
The Orchestre Métropolitain is a Montreal-based symphony orchestra led by Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin, known for their acclaimed recordings of French and Russian repertoire. Their notable works include celebrated recordings of Berlioz's *Symphonie Fantastique* and Tchaikovsky's symphonies, which have earned international critical praise.
Yannick Nézet-Séguin
Yannick Nézet-Séguin is a renowned Canadian conductor known for his work in classical music and opera, serving as Music Director of the Metropolitan Opera and the Philadelphia Orchestra. His notable recordings include a celebrated cycle of Beethoven symphonies with the Chamber Orchestra of Europe and acclaimed opera productions such as Verdi's *La Traviata*.
Elisapie
Elisapie is an Inuk singer-songwriter from Salluit, Quebec, known for blending her Indigenous heritage with indie pop and folk music. Her notable works include the album 'The Ballad of the Runaway Girl' (2018) and 'Inuktitut' (2023), the latter featuring rock covers sung entirely in Inuktitut.
Les Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal
Les Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal is a renowned Montreal boys choir founded in 1956, known for their choral recordings of sacred and traditional music including notable works such as 'Minuit Chrétiens' and various Christmas albums.
Ana Sokolović
Ana Sokolović is a Serbian-Canadian composer known for her distinctive vocal and chamber works, including the opera 'Svadba' (Wedding) and the vocal cycle 'Nightsongs.' Her music blends Balkan folk influences with contemporary classical techniques.
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