After a celebrated tour across southern Spain and the Canary Islands, the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra made its grand return to the Auditorium Rainier III on February 8th, delivering a refined programme under the baton of renowned Baroque specialist Ton Koopman and showcasing an outstanding performance by cellist Thierry Amadi…
Stepping in at short notice following the cancellation of the originally scheduled soloist, Amadi, principal cellist of the OPMC and trained at the Prince Rainier III Academy in Monaco, had just ten days to prepare. The result was nothing short of remarkable. With composure and musical authority, he brought Joseph Haydn’s Cello Concerto to life, navigating its elegance and technical demands with clarity and expressive depth.
The programme also featured works by Bach and Beethoven, creating a richly textured evening that highlighted the orchestra’s versatility and cohesion after its international tour. Yet it was Amadi’s interpretation of Haydn that formed the emotional centrepiece of the concert, earning warm applause from the Monégasque audience on his home stage.
Adding further distinction to the performance was the exceptional instrument Amadi played, an Italian cello crafted in 1717, whose warm, resonant tone lent historic depth to the evening. The musician’s connection to both instrument and orchestra was evident throughout, reflecting years of dedication within Monaco’s musical institutions.
The concert marked a confident and elegant return for the OPMC, reaffirming its artistic vitality and the strength of its in-house talent. The orchestra will continue its season next Sunday with a chamber music concert featuring clarinettist Pierre Génisson.
Image: Monaco Info