Prism

Show & Culture

The viola da gamba is a splendid instrument. Since the success of the film Tous les matins du monde in 1991, musicians have tirelessly explored its richness and unique sound qualities. With the Prism project, Salomé Gasselin (winner of the Victoire de la musique classique award for New Instrumental Soloist in 2024) and her Cairn Consort reveal a completely new image of the viola da gamba. Here, the visionary Fantasias of Purcell blend with the jazz trance of Keith Jarrett. Elsewhere, the obstinate bass lines of the 17th century take on wild "jam" airs, while pieces by Jarrett (arranged by Gasselin and renowned guitarist and percussionist Kevin Seddiki) evoke beautiful echoes of baroque folk music. Sometimes rhythmic, sometimes dreamy, crossing centuries with remarkable ease, the viola da gamba continues to surprise us!