Ensemble Zefiro is a renowned classical music ensemble that specializes in performing music from the Baroque and Classical periods. The ensemble was founded in 1989 by the brothers Alberto and Paolo Grazzi, who are both accomplished musicians and experts in historical performance practice. The Grazzi brothers were born in Bologna, Italy, and grew up in a family of musicians. They both studied at the Conservatorio di Musica "Giovan Battista Martini" in Bologna, where they developed a passion for early music and historical performance practice. After completing their studies, they began performing together as a duo, playing a variety of wind instruments such as the oboe, bassoon, and recorder. In 1989, the Grazzi brothers decided to form Ensemble Zefiro, which would allow them to expand their repertoire and perform with other musicians who shared their passion for early music. The ensemble's name is derived from the Greek god of the west wind, Zephyrus, who was believed to bring the gentle breeze of spring and the warmth of summer. Ensemble Zefiro quickly gained a reputation for their virtuosic performances and their commitment to historical accuracy. The ensemble's core members include Alberto Grazzi on oboe, Paolo Grazzi on bassoon, Alfredo Bernardini on oboe, and Sergio Azzolini on bassoon. Over the years, the ensemble has collaborated with many other musicians, including harpsichordist Ottavio Dantone and soprano Sandrine Piau. One of Ensemble Zefiro's most notable performances was their 2004 concert at the Salzburg Festival, where they performed Mozart's Gran Partita for winds. The performance was widely praised for its clarity, precision, and emotional depth. The ensemble has also performed at other prestigious venues such as the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris, and the Wigmore Hall in London. Ensemble Zefiro has recorded numerous albums, many of which have received critical acclaim and won awards. Their 2009 recording of Mozart's Gran Partita won the Diapason d'Or award, and their 2012 recording of Bach's Brandenburg Concertos was nominated for a Grammy Award. The ensemble's recordings are known for their technical excellence, musical sensitivity, and historical authenticity. In addition to their performances and recordings, Ensemble Zefiro is also committed to educating the next generation of musicians. The ensemble regularly conducts masterclasses and workshops for young musicians, sharing their knowledge and expertise in historical performance practice. The Grazzi brothers also teach at the Conservatorio di Musica "Giovan Battista Martini" in Bologna, where they inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians. Ensemble Zefiro's success and longevity can be attributed to their unwavering commitment to historical accuracy, their virtuosic performances, and their passion for early music. The ensemble has become a leading voice in the world of classical music, and their performances and recordings continue to inspire and delight audiences around the world.

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