Free programming and activities
Olympic Park - WEDNESDAY, August 7 8 P.M.
Under the direction of Kent Nagano, a massed chorus and orchestra joined by four soloists including Leslie Ann Bradley and Mario Bahg will launch the eighth edition of the Classical Spree with a performance of Verdi’s Requiem. A great master of the opera, Verdi gave this work a truly theatrical dimension: profound vocal lyricism, powerful choral and orchestral forces and the famous Dies Irae with its striking effect. Join the OSM and more than 300 choristers at the Olympic Park to experience this special, highly charged and powerfully emotional moment. More information
Complexe Desjardins
For a weekend, Complexe Desjardins morphs into a veritable concert hall! Catch performances by emerging ensembles and by the Classical Spree Symphony, made up of Quebec musicians from all walks of life, and get ready for a surprise as some Classical Spree artists make impromptu appearances!
Place des Arts
Place des Arts and its public spaces turn into the prime venue for learning more about music and musicians:
– Chamber music performances
– Talks
– Film screenings at Théâtre Maisonneuve
– Musical awakening activites
Sainte-Catherine Street
The Classical Spree takes to the streets! Experience music in new and extraordinary ways, right on Sainte-Catherine Street:
– Immersive yoga sessions with musical performance
– Bhangra workshop, dance from India’s Punjab region
– Percussion workshops
Enjoy these participative activities to get you moving to the rhythm of the festival!
PROGRAMME PER DAY
Friday August 9
Montreal Video Game Orchestra
Friday, August 9 at 12 p.m. | 20 musicians
Complexe Desjardins | ICI Musique stage
Whether they are childhood memories or part of our daily life, video game soundtracks leave a lasting impression. Retro game enthusiasts, casual or passionate gamers, action, combat or adventure game lovers can all enjoy their favourite signature themes performed by an orchestra devoted specifically to video games — a concept unique to Quebec!
Figaro Presto
Friday, August 9 at 5 p.m.
Complexe Desjardins | ICI musique stage
Humour, tenderness and passion: the romantic intrigues of the valet Figaro are the substance of this short version of Rossini’s The Barber of Seville, an opera sung in French. Four characters, one pianist and only 60 minutes describe this daring and convivial arrangement, ideal for learning about opera, Rossini’s arias and lyric art in general.
André’s Classical Spree
Friday, August 9, 5 p.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
With André Robitaille
Animation: Frédéric Lambert
Our spokesperson for the summer season André Robitaille presents his favourite classical pieces. A journey through sounds, colours and rhythms, intertwined with a generous helping of enchanting stories and anecdotes.
Ensemble SaxoLogie
Friday, August 9, 6 p.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Musicians: Louis-Philippe Bonin, soprano saxophone; Stef Jackson, alto saxophone; Clio Theodoridis, tenor saxophone; Jean-Philippe Godard, baritone saxophone
The SaxoLogie quartet invites you to discover the great saxophone family, with repertoire ranging from Baroque to contemporary works. Open your eyes and ears and expand your musical horizons: this activity is sure to win you over!
Ensemble Horizon
Friday, August 9, 7:30 p.m.
Complexe Desjardins | ICI musique stage
Ten young professionals with their dazzling brass instruments revisit the classics with authority and brilliance. On Sunday, amateur musicians can join the ranks of Ensemble Horizon to enjoy an unforgettable experience!
Demonstration Talks
Friday, August 9, 8 p.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Animation: Frédéric Lambert
Artists : details to come
Peek behind the scenes of a performance and enter the universe of Classical Spree artists by attending one of our demonstration talks. These friendly opportunities to learn how different works evolve, from an initial idea to the concert stage afford priceless moments with the artists!
Stick and Bow
Friday, August 9, 7 p.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Musicians: Krystina Marcoux, marimba; Juan Sebastian Delgado, cello
From classical to contemporary music to tango, Stick and Bow offers a subtle, unexpected mix of marimba and cello. This duo invites you into its melodious, percussive, and hybrid world. Add colour to your summer!
Bhangra workshops
Sainte-Catherine Street
August 9, 7 P.M.
With the Montreal di Majesty dance team
With André Robitaille
Bhangra is a festive dance from the Punjab region of India, often associated with Bollywood films. With the professional dance team Montreal di Majesty, young and not-so-young can discover the joy of this style of dancing to the rhythms of Indian pop music.
Mur du son ICI MUSIQUE
Sainte-Catherine Street
August 9, 5 P.M. to 7:30 P.M.
Test your music chops at the MUR DU SON ICI MUSIQUE, C’EST MON GENRE!, a fast-paced, interactive music game that challenges you to reproduce the melodies of classic tunes on a backlit ICI MUSIQUE logo.
Saturday, August 10
Collectif9
Saturday, August 10, 10:30 a.m.
Complexe Desjardins | ICI musique stage
You will never see Mahler in the same light again! The musicians of the Quebec-based collectif9 transform the dense, abundant universe of this German composer’s works into music for nine string instruments. Life and death, light and darkness, and nature and humanity are behind collectif9’s poetic new gaze on Mahler’s sumptuous repertoire.
CISM
Saturday, August 10, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
live from Espace OSM
In the context of the OSM Classical Spree, CISM 89.3 will broadcast a special programme recorded live in the Espace OSM at Place des Arts. You will hear interviews with artists including festival spokesperson André Robitaille, and favourite picks by the CISM 89.3 team. A broadcast with diversity and innovation in mind!
Montreal Video Game Orchestra
Saturday, August 10 at 1 p.m. | 70 musicians
Complexe Desjardins | ICI musique stage
Whether they are childhood memories or part of our daily life, video game soundtracks leave a lasting impression. Retro game enthusiasts, casual or passionate gamers, action, combat or adventure game lovers can all enjoy their favourite signature themes performed by an orchestra devoted specifically to video games — a concept unique to Quebec!
Classical Spree Symphony
Saturday, August 10, 2:30 p.m.
Complexe Desjardins | ICI musique stage
Conductors: Adam Johnson and Kent Nagano
Formed specially for the OSM Classical Spree, this orchestra of amateur musicians from all over Quebec transports listeners to heroic, aquatic or even voluptuous settings. A shining example of music as universal language, this concert directed by OSM conductor-in-residence Adam Johnson and Kent Nagano is a festival must-see.
In partnership with the FHOSQ.
LE GRAND CONTINENTAL
Sylvain Émard Danse
Virée classique 2020
Pre-audition, August 10 2019 – 3:30 pm
In August 2020, Le Grand Continental will take part of the Festival Virée Classique. For the occasion, hundreds of dancers of all ages and backgrounds will be accompanied live by musicians from the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal, conducted by Kent Nagano. We are recruiting Montrealers to form this new distribution. We invite you to discover an excerpt of the most popular latter-day square dance. Show us your moves!
Demonstration Talks
Saturday, August 10, 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Animation: Frédéric Lambert
Artists : details to come
Peek behind the scenes of a performance and enter the universe of Classical Spree artists by attending one of our demonstration talks. These friendly opportunities to learn how different works evolve, from an initial idea to the concert stage afford priceless moments with the artists!
Stick and Bow
Saturday, August 10, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Musicians: Krystina Marcoux, marimba; Juan Sebastian Delgado, cello
From classical to contemporary music to tango, Stick and Bow offers a subtle, unexpected mix of marimba and cello. This duo invites you into its melodious, percussive, and hybrid world. Add colour to your summer!
BAnQ Story Hour
Saturday, August 10, 10:30 a.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Music is also experienced through stories! Again this year, the BAnQ joins the Classical Spree in a musical tale that will enthrall children and inspire parents. And who knows? There might be a young Mozart in the audience!
Katcor Workshop and Performances
Saturday, August 10, 11 a.m. | Workshop
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Musicians: Simon Bourget, Xavier Fortin, Alice Lane Lépine et Lyne Santamaria, horns
Through workshops and educational concerts, the Katcor horn quartet introduces audiences to the many facets of a distinguished and historically ancient instrument. From the hunt to music for film and concert hall, the horn has greatly evolved over the centuries. Join its breathtaking musical journey!
Music and the Brain
August 10, 2pm and 7pm
Espace OSM
A unique demonstration presented by Michel Rochon. Explore the origins of music and the latest scientific discoveries on the “musical Brain”.
Big Band Intersection
Saturday, August 10, 4 p.m
Complexe Desjardins | ICI musique stage
With Kent Nagano
Bringing together an amateur jazz ensemble, musicians from the OSM and trombonist Ian Bousfield, this concert of swing tunes from the 1930s will be one lively shindig! Get out your feather boas, neckties, suspenders, and polka dot dresses for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see Maestro Nagano lead a big band!
Orchestre symphonique des jeunes de la Montérégie
Saturday, August 10, 6:30 p.m.
Complexe Desjardins | ICI musique stage
Conductor: Georges-Étienne d’Entremont
The Orchestre des jeunes de la Montérégie performs a poetic, expressive programme of central European music, from Brahms’ Hungarian Dances to Dvořák’s famous New World Symphony. Come enjoy a promising event and discover talented young musicians who regularly perform in Europe and the United States.
Orchestre à vent classique de l’Ile
Conductor: Éric Levasseur
Complexe Desjardins | Big stage
Saturday, August 10, 8 p.m. (featuring Canadian Brass)
We challenge you to keep to your seat with this programme performed by the Orchestre à vent classique de l’Île conducted by Éric Levasseur. From the energetic “Mambo” of West Side Story to music from Game of Thrones plus a fine selection of works by Eastern European composers, these talented high school musicians will delight you with their ebullience and joy!
Ensemble SaxoLogie
Saturday, August 10, 2:00 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Musicians: Louis-Philippe Bonin, soprano saxophone; Stef Jackson, alto saxophone; Clio Theodoridis, tenor saxophone; Jean-Philippe Godard, baritone saxophone
The SaxoLogie quartet invites you to discover the great saxophone family, with repertoire ranging from Baroque to contemporary works. Open your eyes and ears and expand your musical horizons: this activity is sure to win you over!
Choros Wind Quintet
Saturday, August 10, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Musicians: Geneviève Déraspe, flute; Lindsay Roberts, oboe; David Perreault, clarinet; Katerine Rousseau, bassoon; Laurence Latreille-Gagné, horn
Creative, innovative and dynamic: these words describe the Choros Wind Quintet as they perform a scintillating selection among their favourite works. An opportunity to discover a fabulous group of virtuoso musicians and their various instruments, and to marvel at the ensemble’s delectable harmonies…
Immersive yoga workshops
August 10 saturday 10:30 A.M. and 12:00 A.M.
In collaboration with YogaTribes
Sainte-Catherine Street
After their dazzling success at the last Classical Spree, yoga workshops are back again in force … and flexibly, out in the sunshine on Sainte-Catherine Street. Enjoy the experience of immersive outdoor yoga with YogaTribes, helping you connect body, movement and music in an intimate and serene atmosphere, right downtown!
Mur du son ICI MUSIQUE
Sainte-Catherine Street
August 10, Saturday 10 A.M. to 6:30 P.M.
Test your music chops at the MUR DU SON ICI MUSIQUE, C’EST MON GENRE!, a fast-paced, interactive music game that challenges you to reproduce the melodies of classic tunes on a backlit ICI MUSIQUE logo.
Percussion workshops
August 10, 2:15, 7:00 and 8:15 P.M.
Sainte-Catherine Street
With the Baratanga team
Workshop leaders and percussionists of Baratanga turn Ste-Catherine Street into an outright carnival with outdoor workshops sprinkled with presentations. Thrill to the beat of djembes and drums and let the rhythm move you!
MUSIC INTRODUCTION WORKSHOPS
August 10, 10:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M.
Foyer de la Maison symphonique
In collaboration with La musique aux enfants, an OSM initiative, children from 3 to 10 years of age can enjoy this musical discovery space.
Many 30 minute workshops on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Sunday, August 11
The Salon urbain
The Classical Spree’s main hub
Place des Arts
Memorialize your Classical Spree experience! The Salon urbain is a special place for festival-goers to connect and interact. Put on your best or kookiest face and mark the occasion with photo memorabilia, get informed, admire the wind and string instruments and exchange with artists. Visit the boutique to purchase a souvenir or an original gift for someone special. A true hub for the curious, the Salon urbain answers all your festival needs!
Westmount Youth Orchestra
Sunday, August 11, 1:30 p.m.
Complexe Desjardins | ICI musique stage
Conductor: Jean MacRae
Like a family whose young people develop their taste for music in a supportive atmosphere, the Westmount Youth Orchestra presents a program of Latin-flavoured, rhythm-filled repertoire. From Carmen to The Barber of Seville overture and the music of Arturo Márquez, this journey to Spain and Mexico is sure to brighten your day!
Orchestre à vent classique de l’Ile
Conductor: Éric Levasseur
Complexe Desjardins | ICI musique stage
Sunday, August 11, 12 p.m.
We challenge you to keep to your seat with this programme performed by the Orchestre à vent classique de l’Île conducted by Éric Levasseur. From the energetic “Mambo” of West Side Story to music from Game of Thrones plus a fine selection of works by Eastern European composers, these talented high school musicians will delight you with their ebullience and joy!
Demonstration Talks
Sunday, August 11, 12 p.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Animation: Frédéric Lambert
Artists : details to come
Peek behind the scenes of a performance and enter the universe of Classical Spree artists by attending one of our demonstration talks. These friendly opportunities to learn how different works evolve, from an initial idea to the concert stage afford priceless moments with the artists!
Music and the Brain
August 11, 3pm
Espace OSM
A unique demonstration presented by Michel Rochon. Explore the origins of music and the latest scientific discoveries on the “musical Brain”.
Ensemble Horizon
Sunday, August 11, 3 p.m. | Open to amateur musicians
Complexe Desjardins | ICI musique stage
Ten young professionals with their dazzling brass instruments revisit the classics with authority and brilliance. On Sunday, amateur musicians can join the ranks of Ensemble Horizon to enjoy an unforgettable experience!
Katcor Workshop and Performances
Sunday, August 11, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. | Concerts
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Musicians: Simon Bourget, Xavier Fortin, Alice Lane Lépine et Lyne Santamaria, horns
Through workshops and educational concerts, the Katcor horn quartet introduces audiences to the many facets of a distinguished and historically ancient instrument. From the hunt to music for film and concert hall, the horn has greatly evolved over the centuries. Join its breathtaking musical journey!
Choros Wind Quintet
Saturday, August 11, 1 p.m.
Espace culturel Georges-Émile Lapalme
Musicians: Geneviève Déraspe, flute; Lindsay Roberts, oboe; David Perreault, clarinet; Katerine Rousseau, bassoon; Laurence Latreille-Gagné, horn
Creative, innovative and dynamic: these words describe the Choros Wind Quintet as they perform a scintillating selection among their favourite works. An opportunity to discover a fabulous group of virtuoso musicians and their various instruments, and to marvel at the ensemble’s delectable harmonies…
Mur du son ICI MUSIQUE
Sainte-Catherine Street
August 11, Sunday 11 A.M. to 2:30 P.M.
Test your music chops at the MUR DU SON ICI MUSIQUE, C’EST MON GENRE!, a fast-paced, interactive music game that challenges you to reproduce the melodies of classic tunes on a backlit ICI MUSIQUE logo.
MUSIC INTRODUCTION WORKSHOPS
August 11, 10:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M.
Foyer de la Maison symphonique
In collaboration with La musique aux enfants, an OSM initiative, children from 3 to 10 years of age can enjoy this musical discovery space.
Many 30 minute workshops on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Espace OSM
Regular programming
Since it opened last January, Espace OSM invites visitors to plunge into the Orchestra’s history through visual and auditory experiences. At the Classical Spree, to celebrate the Grand Orgue Pierre-Béique’s 5th anniversary, explore the inner workings of this colossal 6489-pipe instrument through the magic of virtual reality! Learn about the work of organ-builders Casavant Frères and the secrets of the King of Instruments. Well worth the visit!
Twigg Instrument Trials
Sainte-Catherine Street
Here’s your chance to blow into a trumpet, horn or clarinet for the first time! Twigg Musique presents a selection of its wind instruments for the public to try out. And who knows? It might just ignite a child’s or a friend’s calling…
Rest area and collaborative mural
Sainte-Catherine street
In collaboration with MURAL
With musical performances
Montreal delights visitors with original and creative frescoes and murals on many of its street corners. This is an opportunity to create such a mural, live on Sainte-Catherine Street, with breaks to relax in the festival’s rest area to the soothing sounds of a chamber music ensemble. An oasis of peace and inspiration on the swarming streets.
The Salon urbain
The Classical Spree’s main hub
Place des Arts
Memorialize your Classical Spree experience! The Salon urbain is a special place for festival-goers to connect and interact. Put on your best or kookiest face and mark the occasion with photo memorabilia, get informed, admire the wind and string instruments and exchange with artists. Visit the boutique to purchase a souvenir or an original gift for someone special. A true hub for the curious, the Salon urbain answers all your festival needs!
CINEMA
PLACE DES ARTS | THÉÂTRE MAISONNEUVE
To the delight of cinephiles, Théâtre Maisonneuve will be screening musical films throughout the Classical Spree. For the occasion, the OSM joins forces with the National Film Board and the Montreal First Peoples’ Festival. The Orchestra has selected cinematic portraits of two world-class performers: diva Maria Callas and violinist Itzhak Perlman, as well as video productions by the Metropolitan Opera. The NFB will present two music-themed films: That Higher Level follows the journey of 100 National Youth Orchestra of Canada musicians as they tour the country; and Coda is a daring, poetic animated film about dance, using advanced digital technologies and also featuring an all-Stravinsky soundtrack. The Montreal First Peoples’ Festival showcases Rumble, which traces the interconnections and influences between First Nations musicians and American popular music. The documentary Du teweikan à l’electro portrays three contemporary musicians against the backdrop of an evolving Indigenous music scene.
A winning combination: the OSM, film and the Classical Spree
August 9 – 8 P.M. La veuve joyeuse by the Metropolitan Opera of New York
August 10 – 11 A.M. Itzhak, 2017 documentary film by Alison Chernick
August 10 – 8 P.M. Maria by Callas, 2018 documentary film by Tom Volf
The NFB joins the Classical Spree!
August 11 – 1 P.M.
That Higher Level, 2018 documentary film by John Bolton
Coda, 2014 short animated film by Martine Époque and Denis Poulin
Indigenous presence at the Classical Spree
August 9- 5 P.M. Du teweikan à l’électro, 2018 documentary film by Kim O’Bomsawin
August 10 – 2 P.M. Rumble, 2017 documentary film by Catherine Bainbridge
