The Orchester Métropolitain invites the public to explore the great forces of destiny through a powerful symphonic program, presented on Friday, February 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the sumptuous Maison symphonique de Montréal. Under the direction of conductor Kensho Watanabe, a rising figure on the symphony scene, the OM offers an evening bringing together three works including Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, a peak of the romantic repertoire, but also, in a world premiere, the Bassoon Concerto by Airat Ichmouratov, commissioned by the OM and performed by Michel Bettez, principal bassoon of the OM.
What does the future hold for us? Whether it is a fateful misfortune or a salutary providence, there is no escaping it. This inevitability of destiny inhabits Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, sometimes calm, sometimes destructive. Kensho Watanabe, apprentice conductor under the direction of Yannick Nézet-Séguin from 2013 to 2015 and one of OM’s favorite conductors, approaches this symphony with all the sensitivity and versatility for which he is known.
The only destiny from which no one can escape is at the center of Rachmaninov’s symphonic poem The Island of the Dead. Inspired by a painting with the same title, the composer reproduced its atmosphere in music, painting death like a landscape. The Bassoon Concerto* by Canadian composer Airat Ichmouratov continues a series of commissions made by the Orchester Métropolitain highlighting the talent of its principals. Michel Bettez, principal bassoonist of the OM for 40 years, performs this brand new concerto.* The composition of this work was partially made possible thanks to the generous support of patrons Roula Drossis & W. Mark Roberts.
ON THE PROGRAMSergueï RACHMANINOVThe Island of the DeadAirat ICHMOURATOVConcerto for bassoon (world premiere — commissioned by OM)Piotr Ilitch TCHAÏKOVSKISymphony No. 5Under the direction of: Kensho WatanabeBassoon: Michel Bettez
On tour CAM This concert, presented as part of the Famille Ionescu series, is part of the Conseil des arts de Montréal (CAM) tour, which allows the Orchester Métropolitain to share symphonic music in several boroughs and to strengthen links between artists and the Montreal community. Thanks to the continued support of the CAM and the exceptional support of the OVI Fund – Ionescu Family Foundation, resulting from the historic donation of 5 million offered by Alex Ionescu, its sustainability is now assured for years to come. This philanthropic gesture demonstrates a deep commitment to future generations and to the entire Montreal population.
Thursday February 26 at 7:30 p.m. – Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs Church (Verdun) Saturday February 28 at 7:30 p.m. – Salle Marguerite-Bourgeoys – Maison de la Culture Ahuntsic