Role

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Ensemble

 

Les Nouveaux Caractères is a French classical music ensemble that was founded in 1986 by conductor and harpsichordist Sébastien d'Hérin. The ensemble is known for its performances of Baroque and Classical music, and has gained a reputation for its historically informed interpretations of these genres. Sébastien d'Hérin, who was born in 1962, studied music at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris. He began his career as a harpsichordist, but soon became interested in conducting. In 1986, he founded Les Nouveaux Caractères with the aim of exploring the music of the Baroque and Classical periods in a historically informed way. The ensemble's name, which translates to "The New Characters," reflects its commitment to bringing fresh interpretations to the music of the past. Les Nouveaux Caractères is made up of a core group of musicians, including string players, wind players, and a harpsichordist. The ensemble also collaborates with guest soloists and singers for its performances. Over the years, Les Nouveaux Caractères has performed at major venues and festivals throughout Europe, including the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris, the Salzburg Festival, and the Handel Festival in Halle, Germany. The ensemble has also toured extensively in Asia and South America. One of the highlights of Les Nouveaux Caractères' career was its performance of Handel's opera "Ariodante" at the Salzburg Festival in 2007. The production, which was directed by Richard Jones, received critical acclaim for its innovative staging and the ensemble's lively and engaging performance. In addition to its performances, Les Nouveaux Caractères has also recorded extensively. The ensemble's recordings include works by Handel, Vivaldi, Rameau, and Mozart, among others. Many of these recordings have received critical acclaim and awards, including the Diapason d'Or and the Choc de Classica. Les Nouveaux Caractères has also been recognized for its contributions to the field of historically informed performance. In 2010, the ensemble was awarded the Prix Bettencourt Schueller, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the arts in France. Today, Les Nouveaux Caractères continues to be a leading ensemble in the field of Baroque and Classical music. The ensemble's commitment to historically informed performance and its innovative interpretations of the music of the past have earned it a loyal following and critical acclaim.

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