Photo Credit: Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo. Pianist Martha Argerich
Since 1959, when Prince Rainier III modernized a centuries-old Grimaldi tradition of opening the sovereign residence to public performance, the Cour d’Honneur of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco has served as an extraordinary open-air sanctuary for classical music. On July 26, 2026, the Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo continues this tradition with a major summer performance under the stars.
Conducted by Charles Dutoit, the evening brings together legendary pianist Martha Argerich and French soprano Alexandra Marcellier for a program bridging Iberian drama and 20th-century virtuosity. The concert opens with the Interlude and Dance from Manuel de Falla’s La Vida breve, followed by Serge Prokofiev’s kinetic Piano Concerto No. 3 in C major, Op. 26, featuring Argerich as soloist. The performance culminates in De Falla’s complete ballet score El Tricorne (The Three-Cornered Hat), heightened by Marcellier’s vocal performance.
Photo Credits: Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo. Conductor Charles Dutoit, French soprano Alexandra Marcellier
Set within the Palace’s historic courtyard, the occasion maintains long-standing institutional decorum - requiring jackets and ties for gentlemen and prohibiting photography within the grounds. More than a seasonal gala, the concert exemplifies Monaco's ongoing commitment to pairing world-class musical artistry with its sovereign architectural heritage.