Couloir is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2011 by harpist Heidi Krutzen and cellist Ariel Barnes. The duo has since become known for their unique sound and innovative approach to classical music. Heidi Krutzen and Ariel Barnes first met while studying at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. They quickly discovered a shared passion for classical music and began performing together as a duo. In 2011, they officially formed Couloir and began performing as a professional ensemble. The name "Couloir" comes from the French word for "corridor" or "passage." It reflects the duo's desire to create a musical passage between different genres and styles of music. Couloir's repertoire includes classical works, contemporary compositions, and even improvisation. One of the highlights of Couloir's career was their performance at the 2014 Vancouver Winter Olympics. They were chosen to perform at the Cultural Olympiad, which is a series of events that celebrate the arts and culture of the host country. Couloir's performance was well-received and helped to raise their profile in the classical music world. Couloir has also been recognized for their innovative approach to classical music. In 2015, they were awarded the Western Canadian Music Award for "Classical Recording of the Year" for their album "The Crossing." The album features works by contemporary composers such as Jocelyn Morlock and Rodney Sharman, as well as traditional classical pieces. In addition to their performances as a duo, Couloir has also collaborated with other musicians and artists. They have worked with dancers, visual artists, and even a DJ to create unique and immersive performances. One of Couloir's most ambitious projects was their collaboration with the National Film Board of Canada. They created a multimedia performance called "The Sky is Not the Limit," which combined live music with archival footage from the NFB's collection. The performance explored the history of aviation and space exploration, and was performed at venues across Canada. Couloir has also been active in promoting classical music to a wider audience. They have performed in schools and community centers, and have even created a program called "Harp and Cello in the Classroom" to introduce young people to classical music. Overall, Couloir has established themselves as a unique and innovative classical music ensemble. Their willingness to experiment with different genres and styles has helped to bring classical music to new audiences, while their virtuosic performances have earned them critical acclaim.

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