The Concert de l’Hostel Dieu consists of a solo vocal ensemble and an orchestra playing on period instruments, who give about sixty concerts annually, which are mainly devoted to the baroque vocal repertoire. They are frequently invited to perform at international festivals and venues. The performances of the Concert de l’Hostel Dieu are always marked by a modern and dynamic approach to the baroque repertoire. Many of them involve different artistic disciplines. Innovative forms are developed and interfaces are created between oral traditions and ‘classical’ repertoire. In short, their artistic choices are bold and original. As well as creating and performing, the Concert de l’Hostel Dieu also supports young artists at the beginning of their careers and endeavors both to appeal to younger audiences, and to perform in outlying areas, where access to cultural events are often limited.

“For us, baroque art is above all the art of movement. Whether it be choreographic, architectural or pictorial, it is from this movement that intention and emotion are born. In music, this interdependence of dance, musical gesture and vocal art nourish an unlimited sound universe, colourful and infinitely varied, of which the limits are being constantly stretched by musical explorers.

Claiming this legacy, we have been tirelessly exploring European libraries for the past 25 seasons, discovering unpublished manuscripts and alternative versions of musical works. With a modern and dynamic approach to this cosmopolitan repertoire that bears witness to a time when Europe was not skeptical of its common cultural destiny, we invite a wide audience to share the moments of grace that concerts represent.

Our exploration of the baroque centuries goes hand in hand with our eagerness to reassess the concert format and to combine different cultures and musical styles. It takes us further to follow Marco Polo’s steps to Persia, experience the intercultural richness of the court of Emperor Kangxi, and even to explore other art disciplines such as theatre, digital arts or slam poetry.”

Franck-Emmanuel Comte
Artistic Director

www.concert-hosteldieu.com