Role

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Ensemble

 

La Pietà is a classical music ensemble based in Montreal, Canada. Founded in 1997 by violinist and conductor Angèle Dubeau, the group is known for its dynamic and innovative performances of classical music. Angèle Dubeau, who serves as the ensemble's artistic director and principal violinist, has been a prominent figure in the Canadian classical music scene for decades. Born in Quebec in 1953, she began playing the violin at a young age and went on to study at the Conservatoire de musique de Montréal. She has since performed with numerous orchestras and ensembles around the world, and has recorded over 40 albums. Dubeau founded La Pietà with the goal of creating a chamber orchestra that would showcase the talents of female musicians. The ensemble takes its name from the orphanage in Venice where Antonio Vivaldi taught and composed music for the all-female orchestra. Like Vivaldi, Dubeau saw the potential in an all-female ensemble and sought to create a group that would challenge traditional gender roles in classical music. La Pietà's core ensemble consists of 11 female musicians, including violinists, violists, cellists, and a double bassist. The group also collaborates with guest artists and conductors on a regular basis. Over the years, the ensemble has become known for its virtuosic performances and innovative programming, which often includes works by contemporary composers alongside more traditional repertoire. One of La Pietà's most notable performances took place in 2002, when the ensemble performed at the Vatican for Pope John Paul II. The group played a program of works by Vivaldi, Bach, and Mozart, among others, and received a standing ovation from the audience. The performance was a significant moment for the ensemble, as it demonstrated the group's ability to captivate audiences on an international stage. In addition to its performances, La Pietà has also received numerous awards and accolades over the years. The ensemble has won several Félix Awards, which are the Canadian equivalent of the Grammy Awards, for its recordings. In 2012, the group was awarded the prestigious Opus Prize for Concert of the Year in the category of "Musique actuelle, électroacoustique" for its performance of Max Richter's "Recomposed: Vivaldi - The Four Seasons." La Pietà has also been recognized for its commitment to promoting the work of female composers. In 2018, the ensemble released an album titled "Ovation," which features works by female composers including Clara Schumann, Fanny Mendelssohn, and Lili Boulanger. The album was praised for its innovative programming and for shining a spotlight on the often-overlooked contributions of women to classical music. Overall, La Pietà has established itself as one of Canada's most dynamic and innovative classical music ensembles. With its commitment to showcasing the talents of female musicians and promoting the work of contemporary composers, the group has become a leading voice in the classical music world.

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