Photo : Hélios
Commemorative Concert for Chopin's Funeral at La Madeleine 1849
History breathes through the pillars of the Madeleine as a live ensemble recreates the poignant musical tribute originally performed at Chopin's funeral. Experience the sweeping intensity of Mozart's Requiem inside this majestic setting that defined a pivotal moment in Romantic history. It is a rare chance to step back into 1849 and feel the profound spirit of the era.
Église de La Madeleine (Paris 8th)
About
On October 30, 2026, the Église de La Madeleine hosts a commemorative concert recreating the music performed at Frédéric Chopin's funeral in 1849. Led by conductor Mathieu Cabanes, the Hélios Orchestra and Hélios Ephémère Choir present a selection of Chopin's works alongside Mozart's Requiem. This solemn evening takes place from 20:00 to 22:00 in the 8th arrondissement. The venue ensures full accessibility for wheelchair users and is equipped to welcome guests who are deaf or hard of hearing. It is a unique opportunity to experience a significant historical moment through the lens of classical music within a magnificent setting.
Hélios Orchestra
Hélios Ephémère Choir
Conducted by Laurent Couson
Chopin decided with his entourage to perform Mozart's Requiem at his funeral at the church of La Madeleine.
Program: Nocturne, Chopin's Waltzes, Mozart's Requiem
At eleven o'clock in the morning on October 30, 1849, three thousand people filled the church, all draped in black.
During the ascent of the coffin from the crypt, an orchestra played Chopin's Funeral March in an arrangement by Napoléon Reber.
Then, the organist Louis Lefébure-Wély performed the Preludes in E minor and B minor. At the end of the ceremony, Mozart's Requiem resounded, performed by the orchestra and choirs of the Société de concerts du Conservatoire, under the direction of Narcisse Girard, with soloists Pauline Viardot and Luigi Lablache.
Our take on this event
Step back into the year 1849 at the Église de La Madeleine on October 30, 2026. This special performance honors Chopin's legacy by reviving the repertoire played during his final farewell. The program features a blend of Chopin's nocturnes and waltzes, followed by a powerful rendition of Mozart's Requiem. Under the baton of Mathieu Cabanes, the Hélios Orchestra and Hélios Ephémère Choir guide the audience through this emotional journey between 20:00 and 22:00.
Tickets are categorized to suit different preferences, with prices ranging from 20 € to 40 € for standard seats, and 60 € for the Prestige category. Students and unemployed individuals can benefit from reduced rates of 20 € or 30 € in specific categories. All tickets should be booked in advance to ensure entry.
Accessibility is a priority for this concert. The church provides facilities for wheelchair users and offers specific support for attendees who are deaf or hard of hearing, ensuring that this historical tribute remains an inclusive experience for all members of the public.