Les Esprits Animaux is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2012 in Montreal, Canada. The group is known for its innovative and dynamic performances of Baroque and Classical music, as well as its commitment to exploring lesser-known works from the period. The ensemble was founded by four musicians: Mélisande Corriveau (viola da gamba), Francis Colpron (flute), Grégoire Jeay (oboe), and Mark Edwards (harpsichord). All four members had extensive experience performing with other ensembles and orchestras, and they came together with the goal of creating a group that would allow them to explore their shared passion for early music. From the beginning, Les Esprits Animaux set itself apart from other early music ensembles by focusing on works that were not as well-known or frequently performed. The group's repertoire includes works by lesser-known composers such as Johann Joachim Quantz, Johann Friedrich Fasch, and Johann Gottlieb Graun, as well as more familiar works by Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi. One of the ensemble's early highlights was its performance at the Montreal Baroque Festival in 2013. The group's dynamic and engaging performance of works by Fasch and Graun earned them critical acclaim and helped to establish them as one of the most exciting new ensembles in the early music scene. Since then, Les Esprits Animaux has gone on to perform at major festivals and concert series throughout North America and Europe. The group has been praised for its virtuosic playing, innovative programming, and engaging stage presence. In addition to its live performances, Les Esprits Animaux has also released several critically acclaimed recordings. The group's debut album, "Concerti Virtuosi," features works by Vivaldi, Fasch, and Quantz, and was praised by critics for its "exquisite playing" and "impeccable ensemble work." Another highlight of the ensemble's career was its performance at the Boston Early Music Festival in 2015. The group's performance of Handel's "Il delirio amoroso" was hailed as one of the festival's standout performances, with critics praising the ensemble's "impeccable technique" and "sensitive interpretation." Les Esprits Animaux has also been recognized with several awards and honors. In 2014, the group was awarded the Prix Opus for "Discovery of the Year" by the Conseil québécois de la musique. The following year, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Prix Goyer, which recognizes excellence in early music performance. Today, Les Esprits Animaux continues to be one of the most exciting and innovative ensembles in the early music scene. With its commitment to exploring lesser-known works and its virtuosic playing, the group has earned a reputation as one of the most dynamic and engaging ensembles in the field.

More....