The opening concert of Holly Hyun Choe's tenure as director of the Orchestre National de Cannes has been set for Sunday, October 25, at 7:00 PM in the Théâtre Debussy at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes. The program will include Joseph Haydn's Symphony No. 37 in C major, Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 3 in C minor, and a work by Ethel Smyth titled Serenade in D major for orchestra. Pianist Anna Geniushene, who won the prestigious Van Cliburn Competition, will perform the Beethoven concerto. This concert is the first event of the 2026/2027 season and is described as a performance that highlights dynamic classicism, emphasizing the vitality of musical gestures and the intelligence of musical exchanges. Ethel Smyth, the British composer whose piece will be performed, was not only a talented musician but also an advocate for women's rights during the early 20th century. Her inclusion in the program adds a layer of historical and social significance to the concert, reflecting the orchestra's commitment to diversity and representation in classical music. The performance is expected to last about 1 hour and 45 minutes, including a break for intermission. Holly Hyun Choe, who recently took on the role of director, aims to bring a fresh perspective to the orchestra's programming and performance style. Her leadership is anticipated to influence the direction of the Orchestre National de Cannes in the coming years. The concert will be followed by a meeting with Choe, offering the audience a chance to engage directly with her vision and artistic goals. The event is part of a broader effort to enhance the cultural landscape of Cannes, where the Palais des Festivals is a well-known venue for artistic and musical events. By featuring a mix of classical masterpieces and works by historically significant composers, the concert aims to attract both longtime classical music enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre.