Les Voix Humaines

Les Voix Humaines is a renowned Canadian early music ensemble specializing in the performance of music for viola da gamba. Here are some key facts about the group:

1. Formation and Members: Les Voix Humaines was founded in 1985 by two acclaimed Canadian viola da gamba players, Susie Napper and Margaret Little. The ensemble takes its name from a collection of viola da gamba music by Marin Marais, a prominent French composer of the Baroque era. Napper and Little, both highly respected musicians in the early music community, have performed extensively as a duo and have collaborated with numerous renowned artists and ensembles around the world.

2. Repertoire and Performance Style: Les Voix Humaines specializes in the performance of music from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, with a particular focus on works written for the viola da gamba, a bowed string instrument popular in the 16th and 17th centuries. The ensemble's repertoire encompasses a wide range of musical styles and genres, including consort music, solo works, and chamber music. Known for their impeccable technique, expressive interpretation, and sensitive musicality, Les Voix Humaines' performances are praised for their beauty, authenticity, and historical accuracy.

3. Collaborations and Recordings: Over the years, Les Voix Humaines has collaborated with numerous acclaimed artists and ensembles, both in Canada and internationally. They have appeared at major early music festivals and concert series, delighting audiences with their captivating performances and insightful programming. The ensemble has also released several recordings, featuring repertoire ranging from English consort music to French Baroque masterpieces. Their recordings have received critical acclaim and have earned them a loyal following of fans around the world.

4. Educational Outreach: In addition to their concert performances and recordings, Les Voix Humaines is actively involved in music education and outreach initiatives. The ensemble regularly conducts workshops, masterclasses, and educational programs for students of all ages, sharing their passion for early music and the viola da gamba with the next generation of musicians and music lovers. Through their educational efforts, Les Voix Humaines aims to inspire appreciation for early music and foster a deeper understanding of historical performance practices.

5. Awards and Recognition: Les Voix Humaines has received numerous awards and honors for their contributions to the early music field, including Juno Awards (Canada's highest honor for music) and Prix Opus awards (awarded by the Conseil québécois de la musique). Their recordings have been praised for their artistry and technical excellence, earning them accolades from critics and audiences alike. As one of Canada's leading early music ensembles, Les Voix Humaines continues to uphold the highest standards of performance and scholarship, enriching the cultural landscape with their exquisite music-making.