"Ensemble Mandragore is one of Montreal's most exciting young Early Music groups to emerge in the past five years. Both connoisseurs and the public at large appreciate their amusing, dynamic concerts that stand as the perfect introduction to Medieval music. Highly recommended!"
Susie Napper, Artistic Director, Montreal Baroque Festival, June 2004 Les Compagnons de la Plume
Mandragore's music has a powerful effect on its listeners, similar to those attributed to the mythical mandrake plant for whom they are named. The ensemble was founded in Montreal in 1995, and specialises in European music of the 12th to 14th Centuries.The Artistic Director of this Early Music ensemble is Ingried Boussaroque (Soprano, recorders, crumhorn and harmonium), and François Taillefer (Percussion) acts as co-director. The other members include Sean Dagher (Cittern and Hurdy-Gurdy), Tobie Miller (Soprano, Flutes, Recorder and Hurdy-Gurdy) and Andrew Wells-Oberegger (Oud, Lute, Bouzouki).This Medieval music ensemble boasts two distinguishing factors: first, an explosive energy and dynamism, and second, a musical approach that combines both musicological rigour and contemporary creativity. Mandragore adds catchy rhythms, languorous voices, rich chords and unexpected colours to medieval melodies. The results speak for themselves: invitations, concerts, recordings, etc. They have performed all over Quebec at festivals and period events. Mandragore has graced all manner of venues from Quebec City's Musée de la Civilisation to Montreal's Kola Note.The musicians of the Mandragore love to present rare instruments and share stories behind the music and historical context. Their performances seduce audiences of all ages, from neophytes to connoisseurs.Miracle!, their first recording released in 2001, features mostly religious music from Montserrat's Llibre Vermell (Red Book) and Cantigas de Santa Maria. Their second album, Gibraltar followed the next year, with a selection of Sephardic and Arab-Andalusian pieces.Mandragore will record its third album in January 2005, under the Fidelio Audio label, featuring Medieval music from France and Germany. The ensemble will also be playing in Montreal, Quebec and abroad.
