Maison Margiela Recruited Max Richter and an Orchestra of Kids for Its SS26 Campaign
The Oscar-nominated composer stars alongside the young musicians in a film celebrating joy.
Cast your minds back to last October, 2025, and you’ll remember Glenn Martens‘ ready-to-wear debut at Maison Margiela. The Spring/Summer 2026 showcase made headlines not just for those mouthpieces, but for the orchestra of 43 children playing Mozart and Beethoven in the background, wearing adult-sized suits from the collection.
Fast forward to today, and the young musicians were recruited for the brand’s SS26 Co-Ed campaign. Starring composer and pianist Max Richter alongside the children from the Orchestre à l’École association, the film takes its name from the original score composed by Richter for the campaign, “Joy.” Richter performs the tune at the harpsichord surrounded by the young musicians, presenting a chaotic night at the opera.
Playful energy and the unexpected are key to the showcase, with an auditorium transforming into a playground complete with a climbing frame and a slide down the aisle. Richter, who is Oscar-nominated for his original score to the film Hamnet, shared, “Playing music together allows us to understand one another in a unique way and to communicate a shared vision that elevates and transforms us.”
Throughout the film, Richter and the children wear looks from the SS26 collection, while accompanying images highlight key accessories from the lineup: the Heel-less boot and Box Bag. A Spotify playlist is also available, composed of songs curated by the young orchestra and Richter under the theme “joy” on Maison Margiela’s Spotify account. This is a uniquely uplifting showcase of the arts and the individuals who shape and will shape them in the future.
Check out some of the stills above and head to the brand’s website to watch the full film.
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