Classical Music

Classical music has always held a prominent place in the programming of Place des Arts, largely thanks to the performances of the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal (OSM) and the Orchestre Métropolitain (OM).

Having performed at the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier for a long time prior, these prestigious musical ensembles established themselves at the Maison symphonique upon its inauguration in 2011. The reputation of this new venue quickly grew, thanks to its exceptional acoustics, attracting renowned artists in a variety of genres, from classical and jazz to world music.

Several other orchestras, including the Violons du Roy and GFN Productions, also bring one of PdA’s largest venues to life with their remarkable performances, cine-concerts and shows for young audiences. 

A new chapter began in 2022 with the arrival of Rafael Payare, an internationally renowned Venezuelan conductor, who became the ninth music director of the OSM, succeeding the great Kent Nagano.  

A resident of Place des Arts since 2021, the OM also contributes to our rich musical history. Founded in 1981, it quickly established itself as a major player on the Montreal classical scene. Under the direction of renowned conductors, notably Yannick Nézet-Séguin since 2000, the OM has captivated audiences with vibrant performances and has greatly contributed to the rise of Place des Arts as a must-visit venue for classical music concerts. 

Since 2012, the OSM has invited music lovers to the Virée Classique, an innovative concert series held throughout the day in various venues at Place des Arts. This unifying event offers an immersive and accessible musical experience as well as a number of free activities to a wider audience.

In 1995, Place des Arts became the owner of the Amphithéâtre Fernand-Lindsay in Joliette. This iconic venue hosts the Festival Lanaudière, Canada's largest classical music festival, which attracts artists from around the world each summer in an open-air program.