There is something very intimate about a cappella music. It is not intellectual. With its vulnerable beauty unshielded by other sounds, the human voice resonates deeply and honestly across any cultural boundary. There is an undeniable connection between you and the artist. Manitoba's a cappella group, Madrigaïa, combines seven talented artists who share a love of world music. Each voice is exquisitely unique. Their melodies intertwine and dance to create delicate patterns of harmony.
"They deliver stunning versions of ancient and modern folk songs," wrote the Winnipeg Free Press. With minimal percussion and movement added to some of their pieces, their music ranges from exotic tribal rhythms to profoundly sad melodies. Their depth is inspiring, including songs in French, Spanish, Hungarian, Serbian, Croatian, Hebrew, Yiddish, and more.
Madrigaïa released its debut CD, Viva Voce, in May of 2002. This album was awarded a Canadian Independent Music Award in the World Music category.
"Easily the best local traditional recording of the year," noted the Winnipeg Free Press. A second album is expected in 2005.
Madrigaïa was formed in the spring of 1999. Initially, members Marie-Claude McDonald, Brigitte Sabourin, Ariane Jean, Sarah Dugas, Dominique Rey-nolds, Andrina Turenne and Annick Bremault would get together and jam, sharing their voices through songs and vocal improvisation. Eventually, they decided to form a group of female vocalists who would interpret songs from around the world. They have all known individual successes in the francophone music scene. The melding of all this talent resulted in a world-class ensemble which have enchanted audiences ranging from festivals and concerts throughout the country and South America, to special performances for the Governor General of Canada, Queen Elizabeth II and the Lieutenant Governors of Canada.
Madrigaïa will perform at the Sechelt Family Arts Festival on July 30 at Hackett Park. For additional information, contact the festival at www.district.sechelt.bc.ca.
The performance is presented as part of the Future Shop Spectacular Music B.C. concert series, a project of Festival Vancouver.
