Bernard Labadie conducts Beethoven — With Karina Gauvin

The first in a thrilling series from the Montreal Symphony House, this event paints Beethoven under two different lights. Perhaps one of the pieces most representative of his “heroic” style, the Coriolan Overture kicks things off vehemently, with a truculence showing the intent of the title character (a rebellious Roman general seeking to overthrow the city). Over the course of the work, a sweet lyricism takes over, representing the pleas of Coriolanus’s wife and mother to spare their hometown.

Bernard Labadie heads the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal in a spectacular program that continues with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1, a work that maintains a style close to the classicism of Haydn’s symphonies. Soprano Karina Gauvin then takes to the stage for Beethoven’s dramatic “Ah! Perfido”. Conceived specifically for the occasion, in collaboration with Quebec artist Brigitte Poupart, these concerts will offer an enhanced viewing experience; an ideal beginning to the celebrations of the Romantic master’s 250th birthday!

Photo: Karina Gauvin © Michael Slobodian