Rhapsodie estivale
A celebration of Mexican classical music, latin rhythms, and aerial poetry
Friday, August 14 — 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, August 15 — 2:00 p.m.
Arsenal Contemporary Art presents Rhapsodie estivale, a one-of-a-kind event where Mexican classic music, Latin rhythms, and circus arts come together in a vibrant celebration of summer. Inspired by the rich cultural traditions of Mexico and Cuba, this event will feature acclaimed violinist and conductor Alexandre Da Costa, singers Antonio Figueroa and Alejandro Figueroa, Sinfonia Stradivaria, Cuban saxophonist Giovany Arteaga Valdés, and the acclaimed aerial Duo Marie and Corentin.
Alexandre Da Costa & Sinfonia Stradivaria
Violinist and conductor Alexandre Da Costa makes his highly anticipated return to Montreal as part of the 28th edition of the Stradivaria Festival. Following the festival's opening on July 8 under the theme From Vivaldi to Venice, this bold musical journey continues with a colourful stop at Arsenal Contemporary Art.
Joined by singers Antonio Figueroa and Alejandro Figueroa, along with Sinfonia Stradivaria, Alexandre Da Costa invites audiences on a dazzling musical journey through Mexico's most beloved melodies. From the classical works of Arturo Márquez, Samuel Murillo, and Carlos Guadarrama to timeless popular songs by Juan Gabriel, Luis Miguel, and José José, this concert celebrates the richness, passion, and soul of a country where music embodies fire, love, and memory. A warm and spectacular evening driven by virtuosity, emotion, and the magic of the Mexican spirit.
Giovany Arteaga Valdés
The celebration continues with Cuban saxophonist Giovany Arteaga Valdés and his guest musicians. Born in Havana, he began studying music at the age of eleven before collaborating with Cuban artists including Xiomara Laugart and Omara Portuondo of the Buena Vista Social Club. A versatile and virtuosic performer, he seamlessly blends jazz, Latin music, pop, and world music traditions.
His career has taken him to renowned stages including the Francos de Montréal, the Quebec City Jazz Festival, London's legendary Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, and as the opening act for Diana Ross during her North American tour. His orchestra will have audiences dancing to the vibrant rhythms of Cuban music in a festive and welcoming atmosphere.
Duo Marie & Corentin
The aerial Duo Marie & Corentin (Marie Lebot and Corentin Lemaitre Auger) will bring an enchanting dimension to the evening with a breathtaking performance where strength, elegance, and poetry intertwine. Trained respectively in France and Montreal, they have dedicated their careers to circus arts and have performed in more than 30 countries with internationally renowned companies including Cirque du Soleil, Cirque Éloize, The 7 Fingers, and Dragone. Their work has also received awards at prestigious international festivals in Switzerland, Germany, Russia, and Las Vegas.