Discovery Trail: Octobass, Bells and the Maison symphonique Summer 2025
This discovery trail has some resonant surprises in store: you’ll have the special privilege of touring the Maison symphonique, a magnificent concert hall with exceptional acoustics; you’ll get to view and hear the OSM’s ten newly acquired carillon bells, as well as learning about the largest instrument of the string family: the octobass!
Artists
Serge Desgagnés, bells
Eric Chappell, octobasse

Serge Desgagnés
PercussionistA native of Montreal, Serge Desgagnés has held the Principal Percussion chair of the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal since 1997, having collaborated with the OSM as early as 1982. A first prize winner in percussion and solfeggio at the Conservatoire de musique de Montréal, he also studied in New York with marimba master Leigh Howard Stevens. He initially performed with different ensembles in the Montreal area, including the Société de musique contemporaine du Québec, with whom he appeared as soloist, as well as several chamber music groups. Before joining the OSM, he occupied the Principal Percussion position with the Orchestre Métropolitain. He has also taught percussion at the Faculté de Musique de l’Université de Montréal.
I give to the OSM
By making a donation to the OSM, you set the tone. Your generosity gives life to inclusive artistic, educational and community projects. You make the music resonate further, louder and with a wider audience. Share your classic.
The OSM issues a tax receipt for all donations of $25 or more. For smaller amounts, a receipt will be issued on request.