On July 31, 2026, Rafael Payare conducts the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal at the Amphithéâtre Fernand-Lindsay in Joliette, as part of the Festival de Lanaudière. The evening features three major works spanning the French and German orchestral repertoire, in a programme lasting approximately 1 hour 40 minutes with an intermission.
The first half opens with Debussy's L'Isle joyeuse, followed by Berlioz's song cycle Les Nuits d'été, Op. 7, performed by celebrated mezzo-soprano Marie-Nicole Lemieux — an interpreter widely regarded as today's foremost exponent of this work.
The second half is devoted to Richard Strauss's monumental tone poem Ein Heldenleben, Op. 40, a work in which Payare and the OSM have a particular affinity, as evidenced by their recent studio recording together.
Tickets are priced from $28 to $120 (taxes and fees included), with various subscription offers available through the Festival de Lanaudière.
Lineup
Rafael Payare
Rafael Payare is a Venezuelan conductor known for his work in classical orchestral music, currently serving as Music Director of the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal and the San Diego Symphony. He has garnered acclaim for his dynamic interpretations of works by Beethoven, Mahler, and other symphonic repertoire.
Marie-Nicole Lemieux
Marie-Nicole Lemieux is a celebrated Canadian contralto known for her rich, expressive voice in classical and baroque music. Among her notable works are her acclaimed recordings of Vivaldi's *Stabat Mater* and Handel arias, which have earned her multiple Victoires de la Musique Classique awards.
Orchestre symphonique de Montréal
The Orchestre symphonique de Montréal (OSM) is a world-renowned Canadian symphony orchestra specializing in classical and orchestral music. Under the legendary direction of Charles Dutoit, they gained international acclaim through celebrated recordings such as Berlioz's *Symphonie fantastique* and Ravel's *Daphnis et Chloé*.
Location