The Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra (OPMC) has brought the curtain down on an extraordinary chapter as Music and Artistic Director Kazuki Yamada took his final bow after a decade leading the orchestra…
His farewell came during the orchestra’s traditional summer concert in the Cour d’Honneur of the Prince’s Palace, with an evening devoted to the music of Maurice Ravel.
Reflecting on his ten years in Monaco, Yamada described accepting the role as an easy decision after serving as Principal Guest Conductor. What began as a natural progression became a journey of artistic growth, during which he learned that leading an orchestra extends far beyond conducting concerts, requiring diplomacy, communication and care for every aspect of the ensemble’s life.
While proud of the orchestra’s acclaimed performances, recordings and collaborations with internationally renowned conductors and soloists, Yamada said his greatest satisfaction came from the collective commitment to always striving for excellence. Among his most treasured memories was leading the OPMC on its 2024 tour of Japan, an especially emotional milestone as he shared the orchestra with audiences in his homeland.
For his final subscription concert, Yamada chose Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, describing its message of harmony, peace and hope as the perfect way to conclude his tenure. By including children’s voices alongside the orchestra and chorus, he sought to symbolise the future and the continuation of the OPMC’s story.
Although he is now embarking on the next stage of his international career, Yamada expressed his hope of returning to Monaco one day, saying it would always be a pleasure to conduct the orchestra again if invited.
Image: OPMC