Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Orchestral

 

 

Vocal

 

Capriccio Stravagante is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1986 by the French conductor and musician, Skip Sempé. The ensemble is known for its unique and innovative approach to early music, and has gained a reputation as one of the most exciting and dynamic ensembles in the classical music world. Skip Sempé, who was born in New Orleans in 1958, began his musical career as a harpsichordist and organist. He studied at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Ohio, and later at the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis in Switzerland. Sempé was particularly interested in early music, and was drawn to the music of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. In 1986, Sempé founded Capriccio Stravagante in order to explore the music of the 16th and 17th centuries. The ensemble was initially made up of a small group of musicians, including Sempé himself on harpsichord and organ, and a number of other instrumentalists playing a variety of period instruments. Over the years, Capriccio Stravagante has grown in size and scope, and now includes a core group of musicians as well as a number of guest performers. The ensemble's repertoire has also expanded to include music from a wide range of periods and styles, from the Renaissance to the present day. One of the hallmarks of Capriccio Stravagante's performances is their use of improvisation. The ensemble is known for its ability to take a piece of music and transform it through improvisation, creating a unique and exciting performance that is different every time. Capriccio Stravagante has performed at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival, the Salzburg Festival, and the BBC Proms. The ensemble has also recorded a number of critically acclaimed albums, including "Les Nations" and "The Spirit of Gambo." In addition to its performances and recordings, Capriccio Stravagante has also received a number of awards and honors over the years. In 1992, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Diapason d'Or for its recording of "Les Nations." In 2003, Capriccio Stravagante was awarded the Echo Klassik award for its recording of "The Spirit of Gambo." Despite its many achievements, Capriccio Stravagante remains committed to its mission of exploring and celebrating the music of the past. The ensemble continues to push the boundaries of early music performance, and to inspire audiences around the world with its innovative and exciting approach to classical music.

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