December 11, 2024
By Alexandre Trochut
The reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral on December 7 and 8, 2024, marked a historic moment for France, five years after a devastating fire on April 15, 2019. The grand event welcomed around 50 heads of state and government, including Prince Williams, American president-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk. The celebrations included religious rituals and a star-studded classical music concert, culminating in an unforgettable performance by DJ and producer Michael Canitrot.
"I drew inspiration, both musically and visually, from elements unique to the cathedral: the sound of the bells, the artworks inside, the voices of the Maîtrise Notre-Dame choir, and the classical style. I want to convey a universal message, so that everyone can connect with my music and feel inspired to come back to visit Notre-Dame."
Michael Canitrot
During the after-show, Michael Canitrot captivated millions of viewers worldwide with a breathtaking blend of his electronic compositions and stunning visuals. His performance highlighted Notre-Dame’s iconic architecture while spreading a global message of inspiration and celebration. Passionate about heritage, the creator of the Monumental Tour, drew from the cathedral’s unique elements—bell chimes, choir voices, and classical artistry—to craft a mesmerizing sequence.
Known for transforming cultural landmarks into immersive experiences, Michael Canitrot has performed at Mont-Saint-Michel and atop the Eiffel Tower. His Monumental Tour concept continues to resonate globally, with videos and social media broadcasts amassing tens of millions of views. This performance at Notre-Dame reaffirmed his commitment to fusing electronic music with heritage, offering a universal message of inspiration and unity.