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Ensemble

 

Les Idées heureuses is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1979 by the Canadian harpsichordist and conductor, Geneviève Soly. The ensemble is based in Montreal, Quebec, and is known for its performances of Baroque and early Classical music. Geneviève Soly was born in Montreal in 1945 and began studying the piano at a young age. She later switched to the harpsichord and studied with the renowned harpsichordist Kenneth Gilbert in Paris. Soly returned to Montreal in the 1970s and began performing as a soloist and chamber musician. She founded Les Idées heureuses in 1979 with the goal of exploring the rich repertoire of Baroque and early Classical music. The ensemble's name, Les Idées heureuses, translates to "happy ideas" in English. This name reflects the ensemble's commitment to bringing joy and happiness to its audiences through its performances. The ensemble's repertoire includes works by composers such as Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, and Mozart, as well as lesser-known composers from the Baroque and early Classical periods. Les Idées heureuses has had a number of main members over the years, including Geneviève Soly herself on harpsichord, as well as other instrumentalists such as violinists, cellists, and flutists. The ensemble has also collaborated with a number of guest artists, including singers and instrumental soloists. One of the highlights of Les Idées heureuses' career was its performance at the 1980 Montreal Baroque Festival. The ensemble's performance of Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 was particularly well-received, and helped to establish the ensemble's reputation as one of the leading Baroque ensembles in Canada. In 1982, Les Idées heureuses released its first album, which featured works by Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi. The album was well-received by critics and helped to further establish the ensemble's reputation. Over the years, the ensemble has released a number of other albums, including recordings of works by Mozart and lesser-known Baroque composers. Les Idées heureuses has also received a number of awards and honors over the years. In 1983, the ensemble was awarded the Prix Opus for Best Early Music Ensemble by the Conseil québécois de la musique. The ensemble has also been nominated for several Juno Awards, which are Canada's top music awards. In addition to its performances and recordings, Les Idées heureuses has also been involved in music education. The ensemble has given masterclasses and workshops for students of all ages, and has also been involved in outreach programs to bring classical music to underserved communities. Today, Les Idées heureuses continues to be one of the leading Baroque ensembles in Canada. The ensemble's commitment to exploring the rich repertoire of Baroque and early Classical music, as well as its dedication to bringing joy and happiness to its audiences, has made it a beloved institution in the Canadian classical music scene.

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