Music has the ability to transcend boundaries and move people in a way that is both powerful and yet peaceful. And it’s that kind of expeditionary transcendence French countertenor Thierry Gregoire will bring to music lovers in Bengaluru this Sunday with his ensemble Les Songes Voyageurs.
Translating literally into The Song Travellers, the trio, with Thierry at the helm, will take listeners on a sonic journey of Western classical music in a concert presented by The Bangalore School of Music and Alliance Francaise de Bangalore as part of The East West Music & Dance Encounter 2017.
Teaming up with two extremely talented musicians – Nolwenn Le Guern on the viola de gamba and Etienne Galletier on the theorbo, the multi-award winning Thierry blends his endearing voice and spectacular tessitura to present a performance that is one for the record.
ADVERTISEMENT
Recalling where it all began, he says it was almost a decade ago that he made his first visit to the subcontinent to wow India’s music connoisseurs with a rare tour of 10 recitals. “That was the first time I tried something like this 11 years ago. The first tour was right here in India. I stayed here for a month. Everyone was happy and invited us back the next year. That was really great. I felt I found my calling with the project and went on to form this ensemble. I’m really thrilled to be back.”On Indian music, Thierry affirms it’s an important part of the country’s heritage. “You have your own classical music which is very interesting and sometimes more developed than other styles of music. The country also has a good scene for Western classical music. At the programme we are going to perform – will be interesting to play this music along with Indian music.
What’s in store for music lovers this time? Thierry promises an eclectic performance of Baroque Music from the 17th Century with songs by British composer Henry Purcell. He elaborates: “Great Britain didn’t have many great composers and Purcell stood out. He was the official organist of Westminster Abbey and one of the flagbearers of Western classical music in his time. He was also a singer, which was a rare combination back then; a counter-tenor like me, so I relate really well with him.”
Thierry hopes his audience will appreciate how expressive this kind of music is.
ADVERTISEMENT
“Even if it’s classical music, it speaks about love, desire, betrayal and more. For me, that is very contemporary. In fact, even if you are not a fan of classical music, you can connect with it very easily.”
Commenting on the trio, the accomplished singer fondly says they share adeep bond of friendship. “We trust each other and we don’t have any ego. We blend very easily with one another and you will feel that harmony when you listen to us.”
To aspiring musicians, Thierry gives the same advice he so often reminds himself: “Open your mind and be curious always. That is the best way to evolve, develop and move forward.” What’s in store for him in the future? Thierry admits frankly that he doesn’t know. “I am a guy who lives in the moment. But I hope to continue in my musical journey as long as I can,” he signs off.
Check out Les Songes Voyageurs on February 19 from 7 p.m. onwards at Alliance Francaise De Bangalore. Entry free. Call 41285017 for details.