Schubert and Tchaikovsky shine in OPM’s January "pocket concerts"
Schubert and Tchaikovsky shine in OPM’s January "pocket concerts"

The Moroccan Philharmonic Orchestra is set to kick off the new year with a fresh edition of its “Concerts de Poche” chamber music series, bringing classical favorites to intimate venues in three cities from January 11 to 13, 2026. This second edition will see performances in Marrakech, Casablanca, and Rabat, all staged in carefully selected settings designed to foster a close, personal connection between musicians and audience.

At the heart of the program are two standout works from the classical repertoire. Franz Schubert’s String Quartet No. 9, composed when he was just 18, offers a blend of lyrical vitality and emotional nuance. Alongside it, Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence, a radiant sextet inspired by his travels in Italy, brings a burst of Mediterranean energy to the program.

More than just performances, these concerts are part of a broader artistic and educational effort. Two internationally acclaimed soloists—Latvian violinist Elina Buksha and Polish cellist Kacper Nowak – will be featured. Both have been working closely with students from Mazaya, a social and musical development program launched by the Moroccan Philharmonic Orchestra to support talented young musicians from underprivileged backgrounds.

Their collaboration is not limited to the classroom. Several Mazaya graduates will take to the stage during the concerts, performing side-by-side with professional musicians. It’s a rare opportunity for the young artists to engage in a real-time musical dialogue—learning through experience, collaboration, and shared artistic commitment.

The initiative reflects a strong commitment to both excellence and inclusion, blending high-level artistry with a mission to expand access to classical music. This collaborative spirit and focus on youth development have become hallmarks of the Concerts de Poche.

The event is organized in partnership with the Hiba Foundation, the Anouarts Association, and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum in Marrakech. Tickets are available online via the Moroccan Philharmonic Orchestra’s official website.