Latin rhythms featured during an exciting concert by the ensemble Harpissimo-Québec
The concert on August 19th at Maison Jésus-Marie given by the ensemble Harpissimo-Québec led its audience on a cultural trip to South America. Under the evocative name “Arpa Latina”, the group of professional harpists presented a program filled with exciting rhythms that charmed everyone.
Between each piece, Robin Grenon, the artictic director provided information about the various cultural aspects of these countries whose musical richness is well-known.
From Cuando (Chile) to La Collegiala (Colombia) to Habanera Gris (Cuba) and Vasija de Baro (Ecuador), the various musical pieces portrayed the colors of these countries as well as those of Peru, Venezuela, Argentina and Mexico.
Discover the versatility of the traditional harp
Harpissimo-Québec's mission is, among other things, to promote traditional harps and to contribute to the musical development of the harpists. "We want to demonstrate how versatile the harp is," said Robin Grenon, adding, "We play the songs as if the harp were a voice."
With his partner Gisèle Guibord, who is also involved in the artistic direction of the group, Robin Grenon painstakingly works on all the arrangements and melodies of the chosen pieces. "The pieces must be strong and rich enough so that the scores are not repeated. Reinterpretations require meticulous writing and arranging when adapting the melodies to the harp."
In closing, let us recall that the Harpissimo-Québec ensemble presents concerts only several times during the year. Their visit to Maison Jésus-Marie was greatly appreciated by the audience and members of the Recreation Committee.
Photos taken by: Sr. Gisèle Lalande
