Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Baroque

Genre

:

Choral

 

Le Mercure Galant is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2015 by a group of musicians who shared a passion for Baroque and Classical music. The ensemble is based in Paris, France, and is named after a French music magazine that was published in the 18th century. The founding members of Le Mercure Galant were violinist and artistic director, Hélène Schmitt, flutist, Anaïs Chen, cellist, Raphaël Pidoux, and harpsichordist, Justin Taylor. All four musicians had already established themselves as soloists and chamber musicians in France and abroad, and they came together with the aim of exploring the rich repertoire of Baroque and Classical music. Since its founding, Le Mercure Galant has expanded to include a number of other musicians, depending on the repertoire being performed. The ensemble has performed in various formations, ranging from a trio to a full orchestra, and has collaborated with a number of renowned soloists and conductors. One of the highlights of Le Mercure Galant's early career was their performance at the Festival de Musique de Menton in 2016. The ensemble performed a program of Baroque music, including works by Vivaldi, Handel, and Bach, to critical acclaim. The performance was praised for its virtuosity, precision, and musicality, and helped to establish Le Mercure Galant as one of the leading Baroque ensembles in France. In 2017, Le Mercure Galant released their debut album, "Leclair: Sonatas for Two Violins," on the Alpha Classics label. The album featured works by the French Baroque composer, Jean-Marie Leclair, and was praised for its technical brilliance and expressive playing. The album was nominated for a number of awards, including a Diapason d'Or and a Gramophone Award. In addition to their performances and recordings, Le Mercure Galant is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly gives masterclasses and workshops for young musicians, and has collaborated with schools and community organizations to bring classical music to a wider audience. Le Mercure Galant's repertoire is focused primarily on Baroque and Classical music, with a particular emphasis on French composers such as Rameau, Couperin, and Leclair. The ensemble is known for their historically informed performances, using period instruments and playing styles to recreate the sound of the music as it would have been heard in the 18th century. In recent years, Le Mercure Galant has continued to perform and record extensively, with highlights including performances at the Festival de Saintes and the Festival de La Chaise-Dieu. The ensemble has also released several critically acclaimed recordings, including "Bach: Sonatas for Violin and Harpsichord" and "Rameau: Pièces de clavecin en concerts." Le Mercure Galant has received numerous awards and accolades for their performances and recordings, including a Victoire de la Musique Classique in 2019 for their album "Rameau: Pièces de clavecin en concerts." The ensemble has also been praised for their commitment to promoting classical music to a wider audience, and for their innovative programming and collaborations. In conclusion, Le Mercure Galant is a classical music ensemble that has quickly established itself as one of the leading Baroque ensembles in France. With their historically informed performances, virtuosic playing, and commitment to education and outreach, the ensemble has earned critical acclaim and a loyal following.

More....