Every summer, the majestic Cour d’Honneur of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco transforms into an open-air concert hall, hosting a series of classical music performances that have become a highlight of the Monegasque cultural calendar. Known as the Monaco’s Summer Concert Series, this tradition blends world-class artistry with the stunning backdrop of the Grimaldi residence, offering an unparalleled experience for both residents and visitors.
A storied history of harmony
The tradition of summer concerts at the Prince’s Palace dates back decades, established under the patronage of the Princely Family. What began as an initiative to bring classical music to a broader audience has evolved into a prestigious event, attracting renowned orchestras, conductors, and soloists from across the globe. The series is deeply intertwined with Monaco’s commitment to the arts, reflecting a long-standing appreciation for music and culture.
The Cour d’Honneur: An unforgettable ambiance
The setting itself is a significant part of the allure. The Cour d’Honneur, the main courtyard of the Prince’s Palace, provides an acoustically remarkable and visually breathtaking venue. As the sun sets over the Mediterranean, the ancient stones of the palace walls are bathed in a soft glow, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Attending a concert here is not just about the music; it’s an immersive experience that engages all the senses, combining historical grandeur with artistic excellence.
A diverse repertoire
While primarily focused on classical music, the series often features a diverse repertoire, ranging from baroque masterpieces to romantic concertos and even contemporary compositions. Performances typically include full orchestral works, opera arias, and captivating solo recitals.
This summer, from July 10 to August 7, 2025, the orchestra will perform five concerts. A major highlight is a special performance of Paul McCartney and Carl Davis’s Liverpool Oratorio.
The season kicks off on July 10 with conductor Lawrence Foster featuring violinist Daniel Lozakovich in works by Beethoven, Wieniawski, and Kodály. On July 20, music director Kazuki Yamada conducts a program including Mendelssohn’s Concerto for Two Pianos with pianists Lucas and Arthur Jussen, alongside pieces by Weber and Brahms.
The highly anticipated Liverpool Oratorio will be performed on July 27 at the Grimaldi Forum, led by Kazuki Yamada and featuring the CBSO Chorus and Académie Rainier III Children’s Choir.
On July 31, Charles Dutoit conducts works by Beethoven, Ravel, and Respighi, with pianist David Fray. The series concludes on August 3 and 7 with conductors Tianyi Lu and Emmanuel Tjeknavorian, showcasing soloists Georgijs Osokins and Sergey Khachatryan in pieces by Beethoven, Prokofiev, Liszt, Bruch, and Strauss.
Enduring appeal
Monaco’s Summer Concert Series is more than just a collection of performances; it’s a cherished annual event that embodies the principality’s dedication to preserving its heritage while embracing artistic innovation. It’s an opportunity to witness world-class talent in an extraordinary setting, making it a truly majestic tradition that continues to draw discerning music lovers to the heart of Monaco each summer.
