Canada’s cultural capital, Montréal, is preparing to honour two of the greatest musicians of the last century – Leonard Cohen and Miles Davis.

Exhibitions celebrating the work of both greats are scheduled to take place in the city over the next few months, presenting great holiday ideas for those looking to explore this most creative of cities.

First up, Leonard Cohen has chosen Galerie Lounge TD in Montréal to give the public an insight into his decorated notebooks for the first time.

On show until May 9th 2010, the exhibition - entitled Leonard Cohen Artworks’ - reveals the man behind the music, and provides fans with a chance to discover yet another facet of Cohen’s boundless creativity.

Born in Montréal, Cohen is best known as a distinguished singer-songwriter, author and poet whose powerful lyrics, timeless melodies and enveloping voice have captivated the world for four decades.

Interested visitors can fine more information here.

We Want Miles

At the same time, the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts will pay tribute to legendary jazz musician Miles Davis in a unique exhibition titled We Want Miles.

Running from April 30th to August 29th, the event combines musical excerpts with rare and unseen footage to create a multimedia retrospective, highlighting the life and career of Miles Davis - one of the twentieth century’s most respected music icons.

Focusing entirely on Davis’ music and the visitor’s listening pleasure, We Want Miles will offer a sensory experience using image and sound, bringing to life precious moments from the artist’s past, also revealing a new and exciting insight into his world.

With twenty listening stations on display, visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the many musical styles invented by Davis himself.

A creative genius who once said he had “changed the course of music history five or six times”, Davis’ legacy continues to arouse passionate admiration and influence music far beyond the boundaries of jazz.

From handwritten scores, lyrics, instruments, stage costumes and vintage pressings of his records, art lovers and music fans alike are sure to be enthused by the universe of this legend that transcends time.

The exhibition was designed and organized by the Cité de la Musique, Paris, with the support of Miles Davis Properties, LLC, in collaboration with the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts.

For more holiday ideas in Montréal check out the official website.