Yesterday evening, Théâtre Maisonneuve at Montreal’s Place des Arts was filled with an electric atmosphere on the evening of January 26 as “Piaf Symphonique” took center stage in a spectacular homage to the legendary Édith Piaf. The concert, part of the year-long celebrations marking Piaf’s 110th birthday, was a true celebration of French chanson and an unforgettable musical journey.
The evening began with the 50 musicians from the Sherbrooke orchestra under the baton of maestro Jean-Michel Malouf with a beautiful Piaf medley. This was followed by the grand entrance on stage by Nathalie Lermitte, the highly acclaimed French singer and actress, stepping onto the stage with boundless enthusiasm. While her exuberance may have initially seemed a bit over the top, she quickly charmed the audience, drawing them into the world of Piaf’s timeless music. Her natural charisma and infectious energy convinced the crowd to sing along, especially during iconic numbers like Padam Padam and La Vie en Rose, where the connection between the artist and the audience reached a crescendo.
Lermitte’s portrayal of Piaf was charming. Her stage presence and intensity were felt by all, embodying the spirit of the beloved French icon with grace and authenticity. From the powerful emotions in Non, je ne regrette rien to the delicate nostalgia in La Vie en Rose, Lermitte’s vocal prowess and heartfelt delivery made it clear that she had fully immersed herself in Piaf’s legacy. Her commanding stage presence evoked the unforgettable energy Piaf herself once brought to the stage, and it was impossible to ignore the way Lermitte seamlessly personified the legendary singer. The audience were also intrigued by the historical facts and interesting introductions to each piece that the singer provided before each number.
The Sherbrooke Orchestra, featuring more than 50 musicians, delivered a powerful performance, transforming Piaf’s classics into grand, orchestral masterpieces. Nakajima’s arrangements beautifully balanced the dramatic with the intimate, honoring the heart of Piaf’s music while giving it a modern, orchestral twist.
Throughout the evening, the audience felt the pulse of French culture as Piaf Symphonique effortlessly blended the intimacy of Piaf’s music with the grandeur of a symphonic experience. It was clear that this performance was not just a concert but a tribute to the enduring power of French chanson and Piaf’s place in the hearts of audiences around the world.
“A fun fact about La Vie en Rose is that Édith Piaf originally wrote the lyrics in just 30 minutes! The song, which became one of her signature hits, was inspired by her then-lover, French singer and songwriter Louis Gassion. Piaf’s emotional connection to the song made it a timeless classic, and it has since been covered by countless artists in multiple languages!”
Overall, the performance was an enchanting and emotional journey that celebrated Édith Piaf’s legacy while showcasing Nathalie Lermitte’s exceptional talent.
The audience left the theater with contentment after having relived a moment of musical history, making “Piaf Symphonique” an unforgettable night in Montreal’s cultural calendar.
To read more please visit : https://placedesarts.com/fr/evenement/piaf-symphonique