Beneath this modern facade lies a story of artistic vision. We are standing before the Maison Symphonique de Montréal. It is more than just a concert hall. It is a testament to Montreal’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Maison Symphonique de Montréal stands at the corner of de Maisonneuve Boulevard West and Saint Urbain Street. This location places it on the northeastern esplanade of Place des Arts in the Quartier des Spectacles. Construction began in May 2009. The concert hall was inaugurated on September 7, 2011.
Originally, plans called for the name Adresse symphonique. However, on opening day, the Quebec government declared its official name: Maison Symphonique de Montréal. This hall is home to many. The Montreal Symphony Orchestra performs here regularly. The Metropolitan Orchestra also considers this its home. Other classical ensembles grace the stage. I Musici de Montreal and Les Violons du Roy are among them.
Imagine the hall filled with music. In 2014, a magnificent addition enhanced the Maison Symphonique. A $4 million organ by Casavant Frères was inaugurated. Jacqueline Desmarais gifted this instrument. It was in memory of her husband, financier Paul Desmarais. This organ is a marvel. It boasts four manuals and 83 ranks. It contains 6,489 pipes.
The hall itself is designed to meet the highest international standards. Acoustics, stage design, and architecture were all carefully considered. The Maison Symphonique holds 2,100 seats when there are no choir members. The hall can host smaller ensembles as well.
SNC-Lavalin played a key role in the hall’s development. In 2014, they sold their concession rights for $77.6 million. SNC continues to operate and maintain services for the owner, IA Financial Group, until 2038.
The Maison Symphonique has welcomed renowned conductors and artists. Zubin Mehta, Christoph Eschenbach, and Gustavo Dudamel have graced the stage. Soloists like Martha Argerich and Evgeny Kissin have performed here. Hilary Hahn, Maxim Vengerov, Barbara Hannigan, Bruce Liu, Daniil Trifonov, and Marie-Nicole Lemieux are other notable names. Prestigious orchestras have also visited. The Los Angeles Philharmonic and Budapest Festival Orchestra have performed here.
Kent Nagano initiated a holiday tradition. He collaborated with storyteller Fred Pellerin. The Maison Symphonique inspires innovation. The Organ and Space concert connected the audience with the International Space Station. This happened via video link. Music from the Grand Orgue Pierre-Béique accompanied the event.
The Grand Orgue Pierre-Béique is an integral part of the Maison Symphonique. Olivier Latry, the OSM’s organist emeritus, helped design and install it. Jean-Willy Kunz, the OSM’s organist-in-residence, showcases its capabilities through diverse programming.
The Maison Symphonique de Montréal is designed with a shoebox design. This means it is relatively narrow, high, and long in form. Seating is arranged on several balcony levels surrounding the stage. Wall angles, curves, and column layouts are optimized. The shape of the balcony facades is carefully considered.
The Maison symphonique de Montréal stands as a beacon. It is a place where music resonates. It is a place where memories are made. Its warm woodwork and exceptional acoustics create a unique experience. It is a meeting place for all who appreciate the power of music.