Ensemble Caprice is a Canadian classical music ensemble that specializes in Baroque music. The ensemble was founded in 1989 by Matthias Maute, a German-born musician who is a composer, conductor, and performer. The ensemble is based in Montreal, Quebec, and has gained international recognition for its innovative and dynamic performances. The ensemble's name, "Caprice," reflects its approach to music-making. The word "caprice" means a sudden and unpredictable change of mood or behavior, and the ensemble seeks to capture this spirit in its performances. The ensemble's repertoire includes works by composers such as Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, and Telemann, as well as lesser-known Baroque composers. Ensemble Caprice is known for its virtuosic performances, which feature a wide range of instruments, including recorders, flutes, oboes, bassoons, violins, violas, cellos, and harpsichords. The ensemble's musicians are all highly skilled and experienced performers, and many of them are also composers and arrangers. One of the highlights of Ensemble Caprice's career was its performance at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The ensemble was invited to perform at the Canadian Pavilion, and its performance was broadcast to millions of viewers around the world. The ensemble also performed at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, where it was featured in the Cultural Olympiad. Ensemble Caprice has also performed at many prestigious venues around the world, including Carnegie Hall in New York, the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the Royal Albert Hall in London, and the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. The ensemble has also toured extensively in Europe, Asia, and North America, and has released over 20 recordings on the Analekta label. In addition to its performances, Ensemble Caprice is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly gives workshops and masterclasses for students and amateur musicians, and has developed a program called "Bach Before Bedtime," which introduces young children to the music of Bach in a fun and engaging way. Ensemble Caprice has received numerous awards and accolades for its performances and recordings. In 2009, the ensemble won the Juno Award for Best Classical Album of the Year for its recording of Vivaldi's Four Seasons. The ensemble has also been nominated for several other Juno Awards, as well as the Prix Opus and the Canadian Folk Music Award. Overall, Ensemble Caprice is a dynamic and innovative ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Its virtuosic performances, commitment to education and outreach, and innovative programming have earned it a loyal following and international recognition.

More....