Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Classical

 

 

Romantic

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Octophoros is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1985 by the Italian conductor and harpsichordist, Paul Dombrecht. The ensemble is known for its performances of Baroque and early Classical music, and has gained a reputation for its historically informed interpretations of these works. Dombrecht, who had previously worked with the Belgian ensemble La Petite Bande, founded Octophoros with the aim of exploring the rich repertoire of Baroque music that had been largely neglected by contemporary orchestras. The ensemble takes its name from the eight-stringed viola da gamba, which was a popular instrument in the Baroque era. The core members of Octophoros are Paul Dombrecht (conductor and harpsichord), Ryo Terakado (violin), Lucy van Dael (violin), Richte van der Meer (viola da gamba), and Kaori Uemura (cello). Over the years, the ensemble has also collaborated with a number of guest musicians, including the soprano Barbara Schlick and the countertenor Michael Chance. Octophoros has performed extensively throughout Europe, Asia, and North America, and has appeared at many of the world's leading music festivals, including the Salzburg Festival, the Edinburgh Festival, and the Utrecht Early Music Festival. The ensemble has also made numerous recordings, many of which have received critical acclaim. One of Octophoros's most notable performances was its 1990 concert at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, which was broadcast live on Dutch radio. The concert featured works by Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi, and was praised for its "sparkling energy" and "impeccable musicianship." In 1992, Octophoros was awarded the prestigious Prix Caecilia, which is presented annually by the Belgian music critics' association to the best classical music recordings of the year. The ensemble won the award for its recording of Bach's Brandenburg Concertos, which was praised for its "clarity, precision, and vitality." Another highlight of Octophoros's career was its 1996 performance at the Wigmore Hall in London, which was part of the hall's "Baroque Unwrapped" series. The concert featured works by Telemann, Bach, and Handel, and was praised by The Guardian for its "exquisite playing" and "impeccable taste." In addition to its performances and recordings, Octophoros has also been involved in a number of educational projects, including workshops and masterclasses for young musicians. The ensemble has also collaborated with a number of contemporary composers, including the Belgian composer Luc Brewaeys, who wrote a piece for Octophoros in 1998. Despite its success, Octophoros has remained committed to its original mission of exploring the rich repertoire of Baroque music. The ensemble's performances are characterized by their historical accuracy and attention to detail, and its recordings have been praised for their "authenticity" and "clarity." In conclusion, Octophoros is a classical music ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the performance and interpretation of Baroque and early Classical music. Founded by Paul Dombrecht in 1985, the ensemble has gained a reputation for its historically informed performances and has won numerous awards for its recordings. With its core members and commitment to authenticity, Octophoros continues to be a leading force in the world of classical music.

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