EARLY MUSIC ENSEMBLE
Specializing in the Baroque repertoire, Les Boréades was founded in 1991 by Francis Colpron. Les Boréades’ approach is one of faithful interpretation, respecting both the rules of early practice and the use of period instruments. Critics and audiences in Canada and abroad have unanimously praised the ensemble’s verve, spontaneity and theatrical, expressive and elegant playing, qualities that testify to an intimate understanding of the Baroque spirit.
The ensemble has toured extensively, both in Quebec and abroad, and participated in many prestigious festivals. The ensemble has also performed at the Frick Collection in New York, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, Salle Gaveau in Paris, the Vancouver Festival, Musikfest Bremen and Alter Musik Regensburg.
He has also collaborated with internationally renowned musicians, including Hervé Niquet, director of Le Concert Spirituel, Skip Sempé, harpsichordist and director of Capriccio Stravagante, violinist Manfred Kraemer, cornetist William Dongois, tenor Charles Daniels and Canadian singers Matthew White and Karina Gauvin. He has a solid discography of twenty-five recordings distributed worldwide. Les Boréades record on the Atma Classique label.
Calaïs and Zétès deliver Phinée from the Harpies, Bernard Picart
Where does the name Les Boréades come from?
The Boréades, Zétès and Calaïs, are the sons of the northern wind god Boreas, himself the son of Eos (dawn) and Astraeos, and thus belong to the race of Titans, beings who personify the elemental forces of nature. Zétès, the fierier of the two, was linked to the quest, while Calaïs, with his changeable moods, personifies the turquoise sea.
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Francis Colpron, Mélisande Corriveau, Olivier Brault and Mark Edwards, regular members of Les Boréades de Montréal.
