An emotionally powerful
season for the OPCM

Stravinsky, Orff, Respighi, Ravel, and Puccini on the program under the direction of Francis Choinière

November 5, 2025

The Orchestre Philharmonique et Chœur des Mélomanes (OPCM) presents, for its 11th season, three exceptional concerts featuring some of the most powerful works in the classical and operatic repertoire. Under the direction of Francis Choinière, over 80 musicians and a 100-voice choir will deliver concerts of rare intensity at Montréal’s Maison Symphonique.

Three exceptional concerts featuring some of the most powerful pieces in classical and operatic repertoire.

“This season is a celebration of sonic grandeur and extreme emotions. From the raw and primal energy of The Rite of Spring to the transcendent lyricism of Turandot, the OPCM dives headfirst into music that dares to be monumental. By performing works such as Carmina Burana, Pines of Rome, and Daphnis and Chloe in concert, the orchestra invites the audience to experience the ensemble at its highest level of cinematography, sensuality, and electrifying intensity. These compositions do not merely fill a concert hall; they make it resonate,” says Francis Choinière, Artistic Director of the OPCM.

Carmina Burana / The Rite of Spring

Friday, November 7, at 7:30 pm
Sunday, November 9, at 3 pm and 7 pm

The season kicks off with two landmark 20th-century works! The Rite of Spring by Igor Stravinsky draws its energy from the raw power of the earth and ancient rituals, featuring bold orchestration and striking rhythms. In the second half, for Carmina Burana by Carl Orff, the OPCM will be joined by soprano Aline Kutan, tenor Spencer Britten, and baritone Hugo Laporte. Over 180 performers, including the English Montreal School Board Choir, will bring this explosive work to life, celebrating fate, fortune, and love.

Daphnis and Chloé / Pines of Rome

Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 3 pm

This concert will transport the audience between ancient Rome and the mythological landscapes of Greece. Pines of Rome by Ottorino Respighi evokes the grandeur of Roman hills, while Daphnis and Chloé by Maurice Ravel immerses listeners in a sonic fresco of love and nature. Again, more than 180 artists will provide an immersive experience where rich orchestration and the sweetness of choral voices blend.

Puccini: Turandot in Concert

Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 10, 2026, at 3 pm

The OPCM will close its season with a concert version of Turandot by Giacomo Puccini. This lyrical masterpiece evokes the mysterious world of ancient China, with unforgettable characters and stirring music, including the iconic Nessun dorma. Soprano Aviva Fortunata will perform the role of Princess Turandot, accompanied by a prestigious vocal cast: Andrew Haji (Calaf), Sydney Baedke (Liù), Colin Ramsey (Timur), John Mac Master (Emperor Altoum), Mikelis Rogers (Ping), Sam Champagne (Pang), Spencer Britten (Pong), and Matthew Li (The Mandarin). The choir will be performed by the Petits Chanteurs du Mont-Royal.

About the OPCM

The Orchestre Philharmonique et Chœur des Mélomanes (OPCM) is a non-profit organization founded in 2016 in Montréal, dedicated to inspiring a new generation of music lovers. Alongside its regular season, OPCM offers music education initiatives and participates in international musical projects, including masterclasses, workshops, and scholarships to promote and advance lyrical and symphonic art. OPCM envisions a community of classical music lovers in Montréal and beyond, fostering an ever-growing appreciation for operatic and symphonic arts through awareness, excellence, education, and inclusion.

Tickets for the OPCM 2025-2026 season are available on the Place des Arts website, or by phone at 514 842-2112 or 1 866 842-2112.

Featured image: Tam Photography – Courtesy of OPCM

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The Orchestre Philharmonique et Chœur des Mélomanes (OPCM) is a non-profit organization founded in 2016 to create a community of talented young musicians. This Montreal-based ensemble known for its vibrant and dynamic sound is dedicated to the development, promotion and advancement of choral and orchestral music. opcmelomanes.ca[/col]