Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Concerto

 

 

Orchestral

 

 

Symphony

 

Espirit Orchestra is a Canadian classical music ensemble that was founded in 2001 by conductor and artistic director Alex Pauk. The ensemble is known for its innovative programming, which often features contemporary works alongside more traditional repertoire. Pauk, who had previously founded the Toronto-based New Music Concerts ensemble, was inspired to create Espirit Orchestra as a way to bring together some of Canada's top musicians to perform challenging and exciting music. The ensemble's name reflects its mission to create a "spirit" of collaboration and creativity among its members. From its early days, Espirit Orchestra has been committed to commissioning and performing new works by Canadian composers. The ensemble has premiered over 100 new works to date, including pieces by such notable composers as R. Murray Schafer, John Adams, and Kaija Saariaho. One of the highlights of Espirit Orchestra's early years was its collaboration with the Canadian Opera Company on a production of John Adams' opera "Nixon in China" in 2004. The ensemble also performed at the 2006 Toronto International Film Festival, providing live accompaniment to a screening of the classic silent film "The Passion of Joan of Arc." In 2007, Espirit Orchestra received the prestigious Lieutenant Governor's Award for the Arts in Ontario, recognizing the ensemble's contributions to the cultural life of the province. The same year, the ensemble released its first CD, "The Thirteen Strings," featuring works by Canadian composers. In 2011, Espirit Orchestra celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special concert featuring works by some of the ensemble's favorite composers, including Adams, Saariaho, and Schafer. The concert also featured a new work by Canadian composer Brian Current, commissioned by Espirit Orchestra for the occasion. In recent years, Espirit Orchestra has continued to push the boundaries of classical music with innovative programming and collaborations. In 2016, the ensemble performed a concert featuring works by female composers, including Saariaho, Jennifer Higdon, and Unsuk Chin. The concert was part of Espirit Orchestra's ongoing commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in classical music. Another highlight of Espirit Orchestra's recent years was its collaboration with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra on a performance of Adams' "Harmonielehre" in 2018. The performance, which was conducted by Pauk, received rave reviews and was hailed as a triumph for both ensembles. Throughout its history, Espirit Orchestra has been known for its commitment to excellence and innovation in classical music. With its talented musicians, visionary leadership, and dedication to new music, the ensemble is sure to continue making waves in the Canadian and international music scenes for years to come.

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