The Orchestre symphonique de Montréal has confirmed a five-year contract renewal for Rafael Payare. Originally set to conclude his initial term in 2027, the conductor will now remain at the helm of the orchestra through the 2031-2032 season.
Expanded artistic leadership
With this renewal, Payare’s title evolves to Music and Artistic Director. This shift reflects a mandate to influence the OSM’s long-term identity and organizational future beyond podium duties and seasonal programming. The agreement specifies a commitment of 14 to 16 weeks per regular season.
Core repertoire and social pillars
Moving forward, Payare will continue his specialized cycles of Mahler and Shostakovich. His artistic vision remains rooted in a dialogue between traditional international repertoire and works by Québécois, Canadian, and Latin American composers. Additionally, the renewal secures the continuity of his educational initiatives, including the El Sistema OSM program in Montréal-Nord.
International activity: 60th and 61st tours
As part of the orchestra’s global strategy, two major tours are scheduled for 2026, marking the fifth and sixth international journeys under Payare’s direction.
European summer festivals
Between August 15 and 29, the OSM will perform at high-profile venues including the Edinburgh International Festival, Aarhus, and Hamburg. The itinerary also features two Chopin-centered programs at the Warsaw Philharmonic Concert Hall with soloists Kevin Chen and Eric Lu.
U.S. West Coast return
In October, the orchestra travels to California for its first performances in Los Angeles and San Francisco in 37 years. The programs include Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 10, Stravinsky’s The Firebird, and Samy Moussa’s Elysium. Featured soloists for this leg include violinist Leonidas Kavakos and cellist Alisa Weilerstein.
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This article was produced by the Moto Perpetuo editorial team.
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