An Extraordinary Concert in a Historic Venue Last night, the historic main courtyard of the Prince’s Palace was filled with the magic of classical music during an extraordinary open-air concert. The musical evening was led by the renowned Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, with a guest appearance by the world-famous pianist David Fray.
Program and the evening’s highlight
Under the expert baton of the esteemed conductor Charles Dutoit, the orchestra delighted nearly 1,000 music lovers. The program was carefully curated, combining well-known classics with technically demanding works. The audience enjoyed a masterful performance of Respighi’s Pini di Roma (Pines of Rome), which took them on a sonic journey through Rome’s historic landscapes. This was followed by Ravel’s Valses nobles et sentimentales (Noble and Sentimental Waltzes), whose melancholic and elegant tones perfectly complemented the courtyard’s ambiance.

The highlight of the evening was the flawless performance of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 1, where David Fray displayed the full brilliance of his talent and virtuosity. His interpretation was imbued with deep emotion and precision, earning him a standing ovation from the audience.
Rules and musical excellence
Prince Albert II recently relaxed the dress code for what was once an exclusive black-tie event, hoping to attract a wider audience. However, guests are still expected to wear city attire. To respect the private nature of the palace, photography and filming are discouraged.
This unique evening was a perfect blend of outstanding musical excellence and the impressive historic setting of the Prince’s Palace, creating an unforgettable cultural experience for all in attendance. The concert once again affirmed Monaco’s status as an epicenter of the European classical music scene, providing an event that will be remembered for a long time to come.