Ensemble Arte Musica is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2002 in Montreal, Canada. The ensemble is known for its innovative programming and its commitment to performing lesser-known works from the Baroque and Classical periods. The founding members of Ensemble Arte Musica were flutist Claire Guimond and harpsichordist Luc Beauséjour. Both musicians had extensive experience performing Baroque music and were passionate about exploring the lesser-known works of the period. They were joined by a group of like-minded musicians, including violinist Chantal Rémillard, cellist Mélisande Corriveau, and viola da gamba player Susie Napper. From the beginning, Ensemble Arte Musica was committed to performing on period instruments, which are replicas of the instruments that were used during the Baroque and Classical periods. This allowed the ensemble to recreate the sound and style of the music as it was originally intended to be heard. One of the highlights of Ensemble Arte Musica's early years was their performance of Bach's Brandenburg Concertos in 2004. The ensemble performed all six concertos over the course of two concerts, and the performances were met with critical acclaim. The ensemble's commitment to period instruments and historically informed performance practices was particularly noted. Over the years, Ensemble Arte Musica has continued to explore lesser-known works from the Baroque and Classical periods. They have performed works by composers such as Johann Joachim Quantz, Johann Friedrich Fasch, and Johann Gottlieb Graun, among others. The ensemble has also commissioned new works from contemporary composers, including Canadian composer Maxime McKinley. In addition to their regular concert series in Montreal, Ensemble Arte Musica has performed at festivals and concert series throughout Canada and the United States. They have also toured internationally, performing in Europe and Asia. One of the ensemble's most notable performances was their 2013 performance of Bach's Mass in B Minor. The performance was part of the Montreal Bach Festival and featured a choir of over 50 singers, as well as a period instrument orchestra. The performance was praised for its clarity and precision, as well as its emotional depth. Ensemble Arte Musica has also been recognized for their recordings. Their 2009 recording of Bach's Flute Sonatas was nominated for a Juno Award, which is Canada's top music award. The ensemble's 2015 recording of Fasch's Concertos was also well-received by critics. In addition to their performances and recordings, Ensemble Arte Musica is committed to education and outreach. They regularly give masterclasses and workshops for young musicians, and they have developed educational programs for schools and community groups. Ensemble Arte Musica has undergone some changes in membership over the years, but the ensemble's commitment to exploring lesser-known works from the Baroque and Classical periods remains unchanged. The current members of the ensemble include Claire Guimond (flute), Mélisande Corriveau (cello), Olivier Brault (violin), and Susie Napper (viola da gamba). Overall, Ensemble Arte Musica has established itself as one of Canada's leading classical music ensembles. Their commitment to historically informed performance practices and their exploration of lesser-known works from the Baroque and Classical periods have earned them critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

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