Aveline Kirana
The Orchestre symphonique de Montréal (OSM) has unveiled its eagerly anticipated 2026-27 season, a meticulously curated program promising a rich tapestry of classical masterpieces and compelling contemporary works. Under the artistic leadership of its esteemed music director, Rafael Payare, the season is poised to engage audiences with a diverse lineup of performances spanning iconic symphonic works, captivating vocal showcases, and innovative collaborations. This announcement signals a commitment to artistic excellence and a dedication to presenting a broad spectrum of musical experiences to Montreal and its wider cultural community.
A Season of Grandeur and Discovery
The 2026-27 season will commence with a powerful exploration of Gustav Mahler’s profound works. On September 16 and 17, 2026, Music Director Rafael Payare will take the podium to conduct selections from Mahler’s "Des Knaben Wunderhorn" (excerpts) and the entirety of "Das klagende Lied" (mixed version). He will be joined by a distinguished ensemble of vocalists: Swedish soprano Miah Persson, Canadian mezzo-soprano Rose Naggar-Tremblay, American tenor Clay Hilley, and German baritone Matthias Goerne. This pairing of Mahler’s early, intensely dramatic vocal works with such a celebrated roster of singers sets a high bar for the season’s opening. Mahler’s "Des Knaben Wunderhorn" draws inspiration from German folk poetry, while "Das klagende Lied," a setting of a medieval poem, is known for its stark emotional power and intricate orchestral textures. The selection of these works suggests a season that will delve into significant, emotionally resonant corners of the repertoire.
A Celebration of Contemporary Voices
Following this monumental opening, October 15, 2026, will feature a program dedicated to new and emerging compositional voices, led by Asher Fish. The OSM Chorus and Orchestra will present "Riddle" by Hana Ajiashvili, Adrian Mocanu’s "de l’encre escafada" (from faded ink), Dalit Hadass Warshaw’s "Letter From Across the River," and Nicholas Denton’s "Protsack." This concert highlights the OSM’s commitment to commissioning and performing works by living composers, fostering a vibrant dialogue between established traditions and contemporary creativity. The inclusion of these diverse composers, with their varied stylistic approaches, underscores the OSM’s dedication to reflecting the multifaceted nature of modern music. This initiative not only supports composers but also provides audiences with opportunities to discover fresh perspectives and unique sonic landscapes.
Bach’s Timeless Christmas Oratorio
As the holiday season approaches, the OSM will present Johann Sebastian Bach’s beloved "Christmas Oratorio" on December 8 and 9, 2026. Under the baton of conductor Kent Nagano, a celebrated interpreter of Bach, the performance will feature a stellar cast of soloists including soprano Carolyn Sampson, mezzo-soprano Olivia Vermeulen, tenor Sebastian Kohlepp, and bass-baritone Derek Welton. Nagano’s return to conduct this masterpiece is a significant event, promising a rendition that will capture the grandeur, spiritual depth, and joyous exultation of Bach’s iconic work. The "Christmas Oratorio" is a cornerstone of the choral repertoire, and its performance by the OSM under such a distinguished conductor is sure to be a highlight of the festive season.
"Voice of Nature: The Anthropocene" – A Topical Collaboration
January 12 and 13, 2027, will see a unique collaboration between Music Director Rafael Payare and legendary soprano Renée Fleming for "Voice of Nature: The Anthropocene." While specific details of the program remain to be fully revealed, the title itself suggests a program that will explore the relationship between nature and humanity in the current era, likely incorporating works that reflect environmental themes. Fleming’s involvement promises an evening of unparalleled vocal artistry, and Payare’s engagement signals a significant artistic partnership. This concert is expected to be a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience, resonating with contemporary concerns and artistic expression. The OSM’s embrace of such thematic programming demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to concert curation.
Emerging Talents and Contemporary Explorations
February 7, 2027, will feature a program spotlighting the talents of Bridget Esler, Jonelle Sills, Korin Thomas-Smith, and Mária Budai. They will perform music by Keiko Devaux and Gabriel Fauré. This concert offers a platform for both established and emerging artists, showcasing a blend of lyrical French repertoire with potentially newer compositions. The inclusion of Devaux, a contemporary composer, alongside the immortal Fauré, suggests a program that bridges historical and modern aesthetics, allowing for a rich comparative listening experience.
Mozart in Focus
The month of April 2027 will be dedicated to the genius of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. On April 14, Rafael Payare will lead the OSM in a concert featuring Mozart’s works with a distinguished quartet of singers: soprano Anna-Sophie Neher, mezzo-soprano Martina Myskohlid, tenor Andrew Haji, and baritone Geoffroy Salvas. This program is an opportunity to immerse oneself in Mozart’s unparalleled melodic gift and symphonic brilliance.
The Mozart celebration will culminate with a full-scale production of "Don Giovanni" on April 15 and 17, 2027. Rafael Payare will conduct this iconic opera, featuring a cast of internationally acclaimed singers. The formidable ensemble includes bass-baritone Ildebrando D’Arcangelo as Don Giovanni, soprano Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha as Donna Anna, soprano Jenny Daviet as Donna Elvira, tenor Matthew Swensen as Don Ottavio, bass Adam Palka as the Commendatore, baritone Gustavo Castillo as Leporello, and mezzo-soprano Michèle Losier as Zerlina. The inclusion of Jamal Al Titi in the cast further rounds out this impressive roster. "Don Giovanni" is a cornerstone of the operatic repertoire, celebrated for its dramatic intensity, psychological depth, and musical richness. The OSM’s production, under Payare’s direction and with such a stellar cast, promises to be a highlight of the operatic calendar.
Piazzolla’s Passionate Rhythms
Bringing a different flavor to the season, April 29, 2027, will feature a program of Astor Piazzolla’s vibrant music. Gemma New will conduct the OSM, with performances by mezzo-soprano Luciana Mancini, alongside Romulo Larrea and William Sabatier. Piazzolla’s "nuevo tango" is known for its dramatic flair, intricate rhythms, and passionate melodies. This concert offers an exciting departure from the classical repertoire, showcasing the OSM’s versatility and its ability to embrace diverse musical genres. The collaboration with these accomplished artists is sure to bring the electrifying energy of Piazzolla’s music to life.
A Grand Finale: Beethoven’s Ninth and López’s "Monarch"
The 2026-27 season will conclude with a monumental performance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, affectionately known as the "Choral" Symphony. On May 25, 26, and 27, 2027, Rafael Payare will lead the OSM, the OSM Chorus, and a quartet of vocal soloists: soprano Lauren Margison, mezzo-soprano Fleuranne Brockway, tenor Robert Watson, and bass Alexander Vinogradov. This performance will be paired with the Canadian premiere of Jimmy López’s Symphony No. 6, "Monarch – création." Beethoven’s Ninth, with its iconic "Ode to Joy" finale, is a profound statement of universal brotherhood and hope, and its performance by the OSM is always a deeply moving experience. The inclusion of López’s work, a significant contemporary composition, alongside such a monumental classic, signifies the OSM’s commitment to presenting a holistic view of orchestral music, from the foundational pillars of the repertoire to the exciting innovations of today. The pairing is particularly significant, with López’s "Monarch" itself drawing inspiration from grand themes and cycles, creating a compelling thematic link with Beethoven’s masterpiece.
Broader Implications and Artistic Vision
The OSM’s 2026-27 season reflects a strategic artistic vision that balances iconic masterpieces with new discoveries, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for its audience. The season’s programming demonstrates a continued emphasis on collaboration with world-class conductors and vocalists, alongside a robust commitment to contemporary music. Rafael Payare’s programming choices, particularly his focus on Mahler, Mozart, and Beethoven, alongside a new work by Jimmy López, underscore his desire to connect audiences with the enduring power and evolution of symphonic music.
The inclusion of a dedicated concert for emerging composers, as well as the pairing of contemporary works with classical repertoire, signals the OSM’s role as a vital incubator of new musical ideas. This approach not only enriches the cultural landscape of Montreal but also contributes to the broader discourse of classical music. The strong presence of both established international stars like Renée Fleming and Ildebrando D’Arcangelo, and the showcasing of talented Canadian artists and ensembles like the OSM Chorus, highlights a commitment to both global artistic exchange and the development of local talent.
The OSM’s consistent programming of significant operatic works, such as the upcoming "Don Giovanni," reinforces its position as a leading presenter of this complex and beloved art form. These productions demand substantial resources and artistic coordination, and their inclusion speaks to the orchestra’s ambition and capacity.
Looking ahead, the 2026-27 season is set to be a period of significant artistic achievement for the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal. By presenting a diverse and thoughtfully curated program, the OSM is poised to captivate audiences, inspire new generations of music lovers, and solidify its reputation as a world-class musical institution. The season’s structure, moving from grand symphonic explorations to intimate vocal recitals and then culminating in profound statements of human experience, promises a journey that will resonate deeply with concertgoers throughout the year. The OSM’s commitment to both historical significance and forward-looking innovation ensures that its 2026-27 season will be a landmark event in the city’s cultural calendar.
