Les Petits Violons Celebrate Their 60th Anniversary!
SPECIAL CONCERT: SUBLIME ACCORDS
Yukari Cousineau – Concertmaster of the Orchestre Métropolitain
Stéphane Tétreault – Cellist
Friday, December 13, 7:30 PM – Saint-Pierre Apôtre Church, Montreal
To mark their 60th anniversary, Les Petits Violons are launching an extraordinary concert season filled with unique and unforgettable events. A highlight of the season is the special concert Sublime Accords, featuring a prestigious collaboration with two renowned artists: Yukari Cousineau, concertmaster of the Orchestre Métropolitain, and cellist Stéphane Tétreault, performing alongside the talented musicians of the Jean Cousineau Ensemble.
At the invitation of Marie-Claire Cousineau, they will perform Brahms’ two string sextets—works of unparalleled depth and virtuosity that promise a breathtaking musical experience. Actress Julie Daoust will introduce the pieces, adding an extra touch of artistry to this not-to-be-missed event.
Program
Friday, December 13, 7:30 PM
Saint-Pierre Apôtre Church, Montreal
1201 Rue de la Visitation (corner René-Lévesque) – Beaudry Metro
Tickets: $20 + service fees – Free for ages 17 and under
In this concert, the four violinists also take on the role of violists. Yukari Cousineau and Isabelle Bélanger-Southey play violin in the first sextet, while Julien Oberson and Marie-Claire Cousineau perform the viola parts. For the second sextet, the roles are reversed, creating a rare and fascinating instrumental interplay.
Sextet No. 1 in B-flat Major, Op. 18 – Johannes Brahms
Composed in 1860, Brahms’ Sextet No. 1 in B-flat Major, Op. 18 is a richly textured chamber work enhanced by the addition of a viola and cello. It opens with an Allegro ma non troppo inspired by Schubert, followed by a D minor Andante, featuring theme and variations with a touch of Baroque influence. A lively Scherzo and a serene Rondo Finale create a perfect balance of energy and tranquility. This piece is considered one of Brahms’ finest, offering listeners an expansive and immersive musical experience.
Sextet No. 2 in G Major, Op. 36 – Johannes Brahms
Composed between 1864 and 1865, the Sextet No. 2 in G Major, Op. 36 is closely tied to Brahms’ first great love, Agathe von Siebold. Brahms even embedded her name in a melodic motif (A-G-A-H-E) that recurs throughout the piece. The sextet is marked by its rich polyphonic writing and poignant lyricism, featuring a delicate Scherzo and an introspective Adagio in theme-and-variation form. The work carries the bittersweet emotion of farewell; despite their deep affection, Brahms ended his relationship with Agathe, explaining that his heart was devoted to his art. The sextet stands as a musical tribute to the love he chose to leave behind.
Johannes Brahms
Renowned for his famous lullaby, Brahms is one of the “Three Bs” of classical music, alongside Beethoven and Bach. Starting his career playing in Hamburg taverns, he later gained recognition in Vienna, home to Beethoven, Schubert, and Mozart. Mentored by Schumann, who encouraged him to explore orchestral composition, Brahms also shared a profound, unspoken love for Schumann’s wife, Clara, which inspired much of his music. With influences from this mentorship, friendship, and hidden passion, Brahms created works marked by discipline, lyricism, and Romantic sensitivity.
Featured Artists
Yukari Cousineau – Concertmaster, Orchestre Métropolitain
With over 20 years as concertmaster of the Orchestre Métropolitain, Yukari Cousineau is also a member of the Ensemble Magellan and founder of the La Muse Quartet. Her more than three decades of experience make her a leading figure in the world of classical music.
Stéphane Tétreault – Cellist
Stéphane Tétreault, an internationally acclaimed cellist, is renowned for his remarkable sensitivity and his exceptional instrument, a 1707 Stradivarius. His talent has taken him to some of the world’s greatest stages, where he captivates audiences with his rich interpretations.
Jean Cousineau Ensemble
Marie-Claire Cousineau – Violin and Viola, Orchestre Métropolitain substitute
Isabelle Bélanger-Southey – Violin and Viola, Orchestre Métropolitain substitute
Julien Oberson – Violin and Viola, Candlelight Quartet, Orchestre Métropolitain substitute
Alexandre Castonguay – Cello, Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal substitute
A Not-to-be-Missed Special Concert
Brahms’ masterpieces will soar to their fullest potential in this Sublime Accords performance. The depth of the sextets and the brilliance of the musicians promise to make every note resonate with profound emotion.
Date and Time
Friday, Dec 13 , 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Event Registration
To register for this event please visit the following URL: https://lepointdevente.com/billets/concertaccordssublimes →
Tickets
Texte tiré de l’article par CultMTL : https://cultmtl.com/event/les-petits-violons-special-concert-sublime-accords/
