Renowned DJ, producer, and visionary behind the Monumental Tour project, Michael Canitrot, delivered an unforgettable performance to mark the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral. With breathtaking musical compositions and an awe-inspiring visual display, Canitrot closed the historic ceremonies in a manner befitting the grandeur of this iconic landmark.
Broadcast to millions via French TV and mondovision, the event invited viewers worldwide to rediscover the cathedral’s architectural splendor. More than just a spectacle, Canitrot’s performance radiated themes of inspiration, unity, and celebration, resonating globally.
Fusing Music, Heritage, and Art
Passionate about preserving heritage and a leading figure in French electronic music, Canitrot presented a truly Monumental experience. Combining his latest melodic techno creations with digital art and a stunning light design, he paid homage to Notre-Dame’s essence. Drawing from the cathedral’s unique elements, such as the resonant bells, iconic artworks, and the voices of the Maîtrise Notre-Dame choir, Canitrot created a symphony that bridged the classical and contemporary.
“I sought to convey a universal message through my music,” Canitrot said. “My goal is to inspire everyone to reconnect with the beauty of Notre-Dame and to come back and experience it in person.”
The Monumental Tour: A Global Phenomenon
Since its inception in 2020, Canitrot’s Monumental Tour has blended electronic music and heritage to create immersive experiences in iconic locations. From the spiritual calm of Mont-Saint-Michel to the soaring heights of the Eiffel Tower and the grandeur of the Basilica del Pilar in Zaragoza (where he performed for over 45,000 attendees), his performances have captivated audiences worldwide.
The unique format of the Monumental Tour pairs Canitrot’s melodic techno and progressive house with stunning light projections, video art, and scenography. These shows transform historical sites into vibrant cultural stages, bridging the past and the present through music.
A Year of Highlights
In 2023, Canitrot brought his Monumental Tour to breathtaking venues such as the Abbaye de Maillezais, Cathedral of Laon, Château de Blois, and Place Stanislas in Nancy (drawing 22,000 attendees). In November, he hosted his first Spanish performance, drawing a massive crowd of 45,000 at the Pilar Basilica in Zaragoza.
Notable achievements include a performance at UNESCO for the Night of Museums and a monumental show atop the Eiffel Tower commemorating Gustave Eiffel’s centenary, broadcast to millions via Canal+.
Looking Ahead
Michael Canitrot continues to push boundaries, with plans to bring his Monumental Tour to even more historic sites. His recent releases, such as “Lost in the Dark” featuring opera singer Yana Mann, and Cycle, a 10-track compilation capturing two years of melodic techno artistry, showcase his ability to seamlessly blend heritage with electronic music.
Canitrot’s work redefines electronic music as an art form, infusing it with storytelling, heritage, and creativity. With his boundless imagination, he continues to inspire audiences worldwide, solidifying his place as a true pioneer of modern electronic music.
