Recital Series: Benjamin Bernheim and Carrie-Ann Matheson at Abu Dhabi Festival 2026

Arab World Premiere Hailed by the Süddeutsche Zeitung as “the most beautiful tenor voice since Luciano Pavarotti”, French tenor Benjamin Bernheim comes to Abu Dhabi Festival 2026 for an intimate recital with his long-standing artistic partner, Canadian pianist Carrie-Ann Matheson. From the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games to the historic reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris, Bernheim has brought his voice to some of the world’s most significant stages and occasions. Inspired by their acclaimed Deutsche Grammophon album Douce France, the evening journeys through the elegance and expressive beauty of French song, from the refined mélodies of Duparc to Chausson’s sweeping Poème de l’amour et de la mer. The programme travels onwards through Spanish, Catalan and Argentinian song and Puccini’s lyrical romanze, before turning to the timeless French chansons of Trenet, Kosma and Brel. Taking place at Culture Foundation, this exceptional recital offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience one of the finest tenors of his generation in a more intimate setting, in an evening of elegance, poetry and extraordinary vocal artistry. About the Artist Benjamin Bernheim, Tenor French tenor Benjamin Bernheim is one of the leading lyric tenors of his generation, appearing regularly on the world’s foremost opera stages, including the Opéra national de Paris, Metropolitan Opera, Wiener Staatsoper, Staatsoper Unter den Linden, Teatro alla Scala, and Royal Opera House. An exclusive Deutsche Grammophon artist, Bernheim’s accolades include Opera Singer of the Year at the Victoires de la Musique in 2020 and 2024, Male Singer of the Year at the 2024 International Opera Awards and the 2025 Opus Klassik. He is also a Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres. Carrie-Ann Matheson, Piano Canadian pianist, conductor and educator Carrie-Ann Matheson is Artistic Director of the San Francisco Opera Center and the Merola Opera Program. After beginning her career on the music staff of the Metropolitan Opera, she joined Opernhaus Zürich in 2014, where she also made her conducting debut. A sought-after recital partner, Matheson has performed with some of the world’s leading singers, including Jonas Kaufmann, Piotr Beczała, Diana Damrau, Joyce DiDonato, Rolando Villazón and Thomas Hampson. Dress Code and Age Restrictions Dress Code: Classy and fancy attire is welcome, but feel free to dress in a way that makes you comfortable and confident. Choose an outfit that lets you relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Be yourself, express your style, and enjoy every moment! Age restrictions: Age restrictions for events may vary. Please check the specific guidelines by clicking on the "Buy Tickets" button for detailed information. Plan your Visit How to get there? Detailed information on how to reach the venue is provided in the event descriptions. Be sure to check there for directions and transportation options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. What should I take with me? <u