Orchestre Métropolitain presents

Yannick Nézet-Séguin and Hélène Grimaud: Kindred Spirits

It is to Clara Schumann that we owe the only Piano Concerto written by her husband, Robert. He had initially composed a Fantasy for piano and orchestra, which Clara suggested he transform into a proper concerto. The dexterity and sensitivity of pianist Hélène Grimaud, a long-time friend of the OM who is paying us a return visit, are front and centre in this work, as intimate as it is sweeping. Mahler’s Symphony No. 9 was the last he was able to complete. Grandiose and enveloping, it is imbued with the sense of fate that marks the final orchestral works of his career, all written under the shadow of the death of his daughter Maria. Even the dances of the central movements have a morbid tinge. Despite the dark notes, the women behind these great composers, Clara and Alma, succeeded in bringing light to the works.

SCHUMANN: Piano Concerto
MAHLER: Symphony No. 9

Preconcert talks
Mario F. Paquet invites the public to discover the works on the program during a free 30-minute bilingual chat with the concert players.

Young Music Lovers Preludes
A musical performance by young musicians takes place in the Foyer Allegro 30 minutes before the beginning of each concert presented at the Maison symphonique de Montréal.

For information and tickets: www.placedesarts.com  514-842-2112 or 1-866-842-2112