Period

:

Medieval

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

Discantus is a French classical music ensemble that specializes in medieval and Renaissance music. The group was founded in 1987 by Brigitte Lesne, a singer and harpist who had previously performed with the Ensemble Organum. Lesne's vision for Discantus was to create a vocal ensemble that would explore the rich repertoire of early music, with a particular focus on the music of women composers. The ensemble's name, Discantus, is derived from the Latin term for the highest voice in medieval polyphony. This reflects the group's emphasis on the intricate harmonies and counterpoint of medieval and Renaissance music, as well as its commitment to showcasing the contributions of women composers from these periods. Discantus has undergone several personnel changes over the years, but its core members have remained relatively stable. In addition to Brigitte Lesne, the group's current members include Estelle Boisnard, Caroline Tarrit, and Viva Biancaluna Biffi. All four singers are highly trained musicians with extensive experience in early music performance. Over the course of its more than 30-year history, Discantus has performed at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and festivals. The group has also released numerous recordings, many of which have received critical acclaim and won awards. One of Discantus's most notable performances was its 1995 concert at the Festival de Saintes in France. The group performed a program of music by the 12th-century abbess and composer Hildegard von Bingen, which was met with rapturous applause from the audience. This performance helped to establish Discantus as one of the leading ensembles in the early music world. In addition to its performances of medieval and Renaissance music, Discantus has also explored other genres and styles. The group has collaborated with contemporary composers, including Kaija Saariaho and Thierry Pécou, and has performed works by composers from outside the Western classical tradition, such as the Persian poet and musician Rumi. Discantus has received numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 1998, the group won the prestigious Diapason d'Or award for its recording of music by the 13th-century composer Pérotin. The ensemble has also been recognized for its contributions to the promotion of women composers, receiving the Prix Liliane Bettencourt pour le chant choral in 2012. Despite its many achievements, Discantus remains committed to its original mission of exploring the rich and diverse repertoire of early music. The group continues to perform and record music from the medieval and Renaissance periods, as well as to collaborate with contemporary composers and explore new musical horizons. With its impeccable musicianship and deep commitment to the music it performs, Discantus is sure to remain a leading voice in the world of early music for many years to come.

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