Rabaskadol is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2008 in Montreal, Canada. The group is known for its unique blend of classical, folk, and world music, and has gained a reputation for its innovative and dynamic performances. The ensemble was founded by three musicians: cellist and composer Jean Félix Mailloux, accordionist and composer Gabriel Paquin-Buki, and percussionist and composer Ziya Tabassian. The three musicians had previously worked together on various projects and decided to form Rabaskadol as a way to explore their shared interest in blending different musical traditions. The name Rabaskadol is derived from the French word "rabaska," which refers to a type of canoe used by the indigenous peoples of Canada, and the Hebrew word "kadol," which means "great." The name reflects the ensemble's commitment to exploring the rich cultural heritage of Canada and the world. The main members of Rabaskadol are Jean Félix Mailloux on cello, Gabriel Paquin-Buki on accordion, Ziya Tabassian on percussion, and Pierre-Yves Martel on viola da gamba. The ensemble also collaborates with a number of guest musicians, including vocalists, instrumentalists, and dancers. Rabaskadol has performed at a number of major festivals and venues around the world, including the Montreal Jazz Festival, the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, and the WOMAD Festival in the UK. The ensemble has also released several critically acclaimed albums, including "Rabaskadol" (2009), "Folklore Imaginaire" (2012), and "La Marche de l'Empereur" (2016). One of the highlights of Rabaskadol's career was their performance at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. The ensemble was invited to perform at the Cultural Olympiad, a series of events showcasing the cultural diversity of Canada. Rabaskadol's performance was widely praised for its energy and creativity, and helped to introduce the ensemble to a wider audience. In addition to their performances, Rabaskadol has also received a number of awards and accolades for their work. The ensemble was nominated for a Juno Award, Canada's top music award, in 2013 for their album "Folklore Imaginaire." They have also received several awards from the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec, a government agency that supports the arts in Quebec. Overall, Rabaskadol is a unique and innovative ensemble that has gained a reputation for its dynamic and engaging performances. With their blend of classical, folk, and world music, the ensemble has helped to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Canada and the world, and has inspired audiences around the globe.

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