Our Artists - Sébastien Lépine, cellist

Couleurs XX^e is exclusive to the Agences d’artistes Danielle Lefebvre, a one-of-a-kind concert agency. This seal of quality aims to promote a specific repertoire and to present it in a highly convincing manner. Having always favoured this approach in my various musical projects, I am pleased to associate myself with Couleurs XX^e. The visual aspect of the performances and audience interaction change from one venue to another, and I find this to be a constant challenge. I appreciate the malleability of these concerts, as it often creates a special connection with the audience. Since it is essential for me to increase my following throughout my career, my priority is to present high quality concerts that are accessible and attract the interest of presenters. Also, by being open to various collaborations and participating in activities related to the concerts for the general public, I am able to communicate my passion in many different ways, the goal being to create a lasting appeal for the music. Lastly, 20th century music offers me countless opportunities to surpass myself

Soaring Strings Project

Absolute pleasure in every measure!

Cellist Sébastien Lépine and violinist Antoine Bareil offer an exciting trip off the beaten path of classical music. In a breathtakingly virtuosic concert titled Soaring Strings, the two sophisticated performers revisit works by some of the most prominent modern composers and surprise the audience with a few of their own compositions. Though they remain true to the strict format of a classical recital, Bareil and Lépine still manage to put on a highly entertaining show, adding a hint of humour, inventiveness and extravagance between pieces. While Bareil reveals the exquisite tones of a Vuillaume violin, Lépine, who has the exceptional fortune of playing on a Stradivarius cello—less than thirty remain in the world—offers those present the unique opportunity to hear the inimitable sounds of this legendary instrument (both instruments have been generously lent by Canimex).  

For three years now, Bareil and Lépine have been seducing audiences throughout the country with their dizzying technical prowess and spirited performances, in addition to making a few noted appearances in Italy. Unanimously praised by critics, they also won the Prix des arts de la scène Louis-Philippe-Poisson for Soaring Strings, while their album Bareil- Lépine, Works for Violin and Cello was nominated for an Opus award in the category of “Best Classical, Romantic, Post-Romantic and Impressionistic Recording”.

Soaring Strings: a classical concert…in a class of its own!

When soaring strings Soar! – Le Choix – Sonia Lortie – July 2008
«From the beginning, the chemistry between the two performers was palpable, as was their passion for the music. Antoine Bareil, the violinist, played with fervor and obvious enjoyment. Sébastien Lépine handled his cello gracefully and meticulously. Above all, they played the notes with precision and displayed unmitigated joy for their work. They commanded their instruments with remarkable ease». «A most enjoyable performance. Soaring Strings definitely lives up to its name!»

Soaring Strings : An Enthralling Duo! EnBeauce.com – Johanne Jacques – November 2007
http://www.enbeauce.com/detail-actualite.asp?ID=6988
«In an intimate setting, the two musicians artfully executed a most singular repertoire. They offered a fresh new take on classical music and delighted the audience with pieces marked by an unusual musical language. » «Then, the duo immediately unleashed the frenzied rhythms of Arthur Honegger and swept away the crowd in a torrent of emotions. The technical complexity of the piece allowed Bareil and Lépine to exhibit their virtuosity. The two passionate performers gave a moving and highly captivating show.»

Voir – Review of Bareil-Lépine’s release for the XXI-21 label
Bareil and Lépine give life to music that is delicately magnificent, astonishingly rigorous or so romantic it will move you to tears. (K.G.)

The concert met and surpassed all expectations. Antoine and Sebastian played impeccably with the tone, nuance and excitement you would expect from a top string quartet, not a duo. They were received with an enthusiastic standing ovation which is reserved with our audience for only the very finest performances. Best regards, Guy Traficante - Algoma Conservatory Concerts – February 2009

«The major works in this format were written in the 20th century, and several of them are included on this excellent CD from the Quebec duo Antoine Bareil and Sébastien Lépine. » Terry Robbins – WholeNote Magazine, June 08

Sample

Soaring Strings

Soaring Strings - Halvorsen

Soaring Strings - Mence et Ravel

Soaring Strings - Ravel 2e