Monaco’s Prince’s Carabiniers Orchestra Celebrates 60 Years of Music and Tradition

Six decades of music, institutional commitment and Monegasque tradition: the Prince’s Carabiniers Orchestra celebrated its 60th anniversary with a gala concert at the Grimaldi Forum, attended by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene.

The event, organised to mark six decades of musical excellence, also had a charitable purpose. Proceeds from the evening were donated to the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, which promotes water safety and works to prevent drowning, particularly among children and young people.

From the vision of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace to a 25-member orchestra

The history of the Prince’s Carabiniers Orchestra dates back to 1966, when it was established at the initiative of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace. Their vision was to complement the institutional duties of the Carabiniers with a musical presence capable of representing the Principality through culture and tradition.

Originally a small ensemble of drums and wind instruments, the orchestra gradually evolved over the decades into a fully established musical formation.

Today, it comprises 25 musicians and is conducted by Major Olivier Dréan, who leads the ensemble in an artistic mission combining military discipline, musical excellence and the promotion of Monaco’s cultural heritage.

The Prince’s Carabiniers: between institutional service and music

The orchestra’s members are first and foremost serving members of the Prince’s Carabiniers Corps. Alongside their duties in the service of the Princely Family and the Palace, they pursue an active musical career, performing at major official events in Monaco and at international engagements.

This dual role gives the ensemble a distinctive place in Monaco’s institutional and cultural landscape: combining the discipline and dedication of military service with the universal language of music, through which the Principality is represented far beyond its borders.

The Princes thank the musicians for six decades of dedication

At the end of the gala concert, Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene congratulated the musicians and expressed their appreciation for six decades of commitment and service to the Principality.

The anniversary represents far more than a musical milestone. It celebrates a journey spanning six decades of Monegasque history and highlights the longstanding ties between the Prince’s Carabiniers, the Grimaldi family and the traditions of the Principality.

A heritage built over time, in which music continues to serve as a symbol of representation, identity and institutional continuity.