Les Arènes Lyriques Montmartre

Les Arènes Lyriques Montmartre: Opera Under the Stars of the Butte

The Arènes Lyriques Montmartre were born from the desire to make classical and lyrical music resonate in one of Paris's most emblematic districts. Montmartre, a land of artists since the 19th century, has seen the greatest names in music, painting, and literature pass through. It is in this spirit that the festival offers every summer Classical Nights in Montmartre, evenings where lyrical art meets the magic of Parisian open air.

The Orchestre des Arènes and its Lyrical Voices

At the heart of the festival is the Orchestre des Arènes, an ensemble dedicated to the great works of the classical and lyrical repertoire. Accompanied by vocal soloists — sopranos, tenors, baritones, and mezzo-sopranos — the orchestra performs the most famous arias from opera, from Verdi to Puccini, from Bizet to Mozart, as well as Gounod, Offenbach, and Rossini. The programs are designed to appeal to a wide audience, from opera lovers to curious newcomers, with universally loved pieces that transcend genre boundaries.

An Exceptional Montmartre Setting

The concerts take place in historic venues in the 18th arrondissement, at the foot of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica or in the gardens and open spaces of Montmartre. The atmosphere is unique: the lights of Paris as a backdrop, the illuminated bell tower of Sacré-Cœur, the rustling of trees, and the gentle summer evenings create a natural setting worthy of the most beautiful opera stages.

A Montmartre Musical Tradition

Montmartre has always been a place of music. From Aristide Bruant's Chat Noir to the cabarets of the Belle Époque, from the Moulin Rouge to the studios where Satie composed his Gymnopédies, the Butte is steeped in music. Les Arènes Lyriques continues this tradition by offering accessible and convivial lyrical art, true to the bohemian and popular spirit of the district.