Country

:

Canada

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Concerto

 

Arion is a classical music ensemble based in Montreal, Canada. Founded in 1981 by flutist Claire Guimond and harpsichordist Hank Knox, the ensemble has become one of the most renowned early music groups in North America. The ensemble takes its name from the Greek mythological figure Arion, a poet and musician who was saved by a dolphin after being thrown overboard by pirates. This name reflects the ensemble's commitment to exploring the rich and diverse repertoire of early music, from the medieval period to the Baroque era. Arion's founding members, Claire Guimond and Hank Knox, were both students at McGill University's Faculty of Music in the late 1970s. They shared a passion for early music and began performing together as a duo, playing works by composers such as Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi on period instruments. In 1981, Guimond and Knox decided to expand their ensemble and invited several other musicians to join them. The new group, which included violinists Chantal Rémillard and Jean-François Rivest, cellist Betsy MacMillan, and bassist Joël Thiffault, made its debut at the Montreal Baroque Festival that same year. Arion quickly gained a reputation for its virtuosic performances and innovative programming. The ensemble's repertoire includes not only well-known works by composers such as Bach and Handel, but also lesser-known gems by composers such as Telemann, Rameau, and Couperin. Over the years, Arion has collaborated with many renowned musicians, including sopranos Suzie LeBlanc and Karina Gauvin, and violinist Monica Huggett. The ensemble has also commissioned new works by Canadian composers such as John Rea and Denis Gougeon. One of Arion's most notable achievements was its recording of the complete chamber music of Georg Philipp Telemann, which was released on the ATMA Classique label in 2006. This ambitious project, which took several years to complete, was praised by critics for its high level of musicianship and attention to detail. Arion has also been recognized with numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 1991, the ensemble won the prestigious Prix Opus for Best Early Music Ensemble, an award it has won several times since. In 2002, Arion was awarded the Grand Prix du Conseil des arts de Montréal, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the arts in Montreal. In addition to its regular concert series in Montreal, Arion has performed at many major festivals and concert halls around the world, including the Boston Early Music Festival, the Vancouver Early Music Festival, and the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. Despite changes in personnel over the years, Arion has remained committed to its mission of exploring the rich and diverse repertoire of early music. The ensemble's current members include Claire Guimond (flute), Chantal Rémillard (violin), Elinor Frey (cello), and Hank Knox (harpsichord). Arion's performances continue to be praised for their virtuosity, sensitivity, and attention to historical detail. The ensemble's recordings, which include over 20 albums on the ATMA Classique label, have been widely acclaimed by critics and audiences alike. In conclusion, Arion is a classical music ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of early music. Founded in 1981 by Claire Guimond and Hank Knox, the ensemble has become renowned for its virtuosic performances, innovative programming, and commitment to exploring the rich and diverse repertoire of early music.

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