Photo : Hélios
Ravel's Boléro / Beethoven's 9th Symphony
Prepare for a symphonic experience where the hypnotic tension of Ravel meets the soaring human spirit of Beethoven's choral masterpiece. Beneath the high ceilings of one of Paris's finest historical landmarks, a dynamic collective of talented musicians breathes new life into these monumental scores. Expect an evening of sheer emotional intensity that connects us all through the timeless power of great compositions.
Eglise de la Madeleine (Paris 8th)
About
On December 31, 2026, the Eglise de la Madeleine in Paris hosts a grand concert featuring Ravel’s Boléro and Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. Performed by the Orchestre Hélios under the direction of Paul Savalle, this evening program runs from 20:00 to 21:15. It is an opportunity for audience members of all ages, starting from 3 years old, to experience the iconic Ode to Joy and the rhythmic precision of Ravel in the stunning acoustic setting of this historic 8th arrondissement landmark. Whether you are a classical music enthusiast or looking for a refined way to mark the end of the year, this concert promises an engaging artistic experience.
Program: Ravel's Boléro / Beethoven's 9th Symphony
Boléro is the most performed piece of classical music in the world, with a performance every 15 minutes. Upon its creation, the composer had given the copyright to his gardener without anticipating its success with the general public.
This work is the archetype of the ostinato. The melody is played in turn by the different instruments of the orchestra over a rhythmic percussion pattern.
Beethoven's 9th Symphony was written at the end of his life, when he was already deaf. The most famous passage is the Ode to Joy, inspired by Schiller's poem, which expresses the ideal of brotherhood for the human race, a vision shared by the composer. This melody has been adopted as the Official Anthem of the European Union.
Orchestre Hélios
Dynamic and eclectic, the Orchestre Hélios has established itself since its creation in 2014.
Its artistic director, Paul Savalle, promotes the professional integration of young musicians through orchestral practice. Thus, young graduates mingle with experienced orchestral musicians, conductors, and soloists in optimal working conditions.
From baroque music to contemporary music, the programs are varied, and the repertoire is both symphonic and choral, with the orchestra collaborating with departmental and regional choirs.
Thanks to the collaboration with different conductors, the musicians approach a very rich repertoire, broadening their interpretation palette. They all come from major French conservatories, with some belonging to a national orchestra.
From string quartet to symphony orchestra, including brass ensembles, the orchestra is always expanding its audience by modulating its composition. The "strings" ensemble performs in the most prestigious churches in Paris, allowing the public to discover a very rich architectural heritage.
Its variable geometry formation allows the Orchestre Hélios to tackle a very broad repertoire with a passionate curiosity.
Our take on this event
The Orchestre Hélios takes the stage at the Eglise de la Madeleine on December 31, 2026, for a performance lasting from 20:00 to 21:15. The program centers on two monumental works: the hypnotic Boléro by Ravel and Beethoven's final masterpiece, the 9th Symphony. Established in 2014 by artistic director Paul Savalle, the orchestra is known for its eclecticism and its commitment to professional development, pairing young conservatory graduates with experienced soloists and musicians. Their performances in historic Parisian churches highlight both the architectural heritage of the city and the ensemble's technical versatility.
Tickets are available at several price points: 60 euros for Prestige, 50 euros for Category 1, 40 euros for Category 2, and 30 euros for Category 3. Reduced rates are offered for those under 25 and unemployed individuals, with Category 1 tickets at 40 euros and Category 2 tickets at 30 euros. This event is open to children from 3 years of age, making it an accessible classical outing in the heart of the 8th arrondissement.
