Country

:

Canada

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Les Voix Humaines is a Canadian classical music ensemble that specializes in the performance of early music. The ensemble was founded in 1985 by Susie Napper and Margaret Little, two accomplished musicians who shared a passion for the viola da gamba, a stringed instrument that was popular in the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Susie Napper and Margaret Little met while studying music at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. They both went on to pursue successful careers as performers and teachers, but they remained connected by their love of the viola da gamba. In 1985, they decided to form an ensemble that would allow them to explore the rich repertoire of early music that was written for the instrument. The name "Les Voix Humaines" is taken from a piece by the French composer Marin Marais, who was one of the most famous viola da gamba players of the Baroque era. The piece is a set of variations on a popular song called "Les Voix Humaines" (The Human Voices), and it showcases the expressive and vocal qualities of the viola da gamba. From the beginning, Les Voix Humaines was committed to performing early music with authenticity and passion. The ensemble's core members, Susie Napper and Margaret Little, were joined by a rotating cast of guest musicians who shared their dedication to the music of the past. Over the years, Les Voix Humaines has collaborated with some of the world's leading early music specialists, including Jordi Savall, Monica Huggett, and Andrew Lawrence-King. One of the highlights of Les Voix Humaines' career was their performance at the 1991 Boston Early Music Festival. The festival is one of the most prestigious early music events in the world, and Les Voix Humaines was invited to perform a program of French Baroque music. The ensemble's performance was a critical and popular success, and it helped to establish Les Voix Humaines as one of the leading early music ensembles in North America. In addition to their performances, Les Voix Humaines has also recorded extensively. The ensemble's discography includes over a dozen albums, many of which have received critical acclaim and awards. One of their most successful recordings is "Marais: Pièces de Viole du Second Livre," which won the Juno Award for Best Classical Album in 2002. The Juno Awards are Canada's most prestigious music awards, and winning one is a significant achievement for any musician. Les Voix Humaines has also been recognized for their contributions to early music education. The ensemble has conducted masterclasses and workshops for students and professionals around the world, and they have been involved in the development of early music programs at several universities in Canada. Today, Les Voix Humaines continues to perform and record, and they remain committed to their mission of bringing the music of the past to life. The ensemble's core members, Susie Napper and Margaret Little, are still at the helm, and they continue to inspire audiences and musicians alike with their passion and expertise. Les Voix Humaines is a testament to the enduring power of early music, and to the dedication and artistry of the musicians who bring it to life.

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