Fiftieth anniversary celebration
The Chœur de Paris, founded in 1976 by Daniel Barenboim to support the Orchestre de Paris, is marking its fiftieth anniversary in 2026 with performances of Berlioz's Romeo and Juliette.Performance details
Two performances of Romeo and Juliette are scheduled for October 21 and 22 at the Philharmonie de Paris, with the Orchestre de Paris conducted by Klaus Mäkelä. These performances serve both as the anniversary celebration and as a tribute to Berlioz, whose Te Deum was the first work performed by the ensemble.Berlioz's work and its structure
Romeo and Juliette is a complex composition that highlights a choir, commentator, and protagonist, focusing more on Berlioz's admiration for Shakespeare than on a straightforward narrative of the tragedy. The piece is filled with contrasts, allowing the Chœur de Paris to shine in small ensemble sections.Choral performance highlights
The Chœur de Paris excels in the early parts of the work, with homogeneity of sound, clarity of words, and cohesion of sections. However, in the later sections, the choir's impact is somewhat diminished due to spatial constraints, particularly during the Funeral Procession of Juliette.Soloist performances
The Philharmonie has assembled a strong team of soloists, including Julien Henric, Julien Teitgen, and Marianne Crebassa. Each contributes distinctively to the performance, with Henric's rendition of Queen Mab and Crebassa's "Premiers transports que nul n'oublie" receiving particular praise.Conductor's interpretation
Klaus Mäkelä's conducting brings a highly theatrical interpretation of Romeo and Juliette. His dynamic handling of sections like the "Great Party at Capulet's" and the "Scherzo of Queen Mab" adds intensity and emotional depth to the performance.Overall success of the evening
The performance is described as successful and a resounding anniversary evening, with the Chœur de Paris and the Orchestre de Paris delivering a memorable tribute to Berlioz.
