Quartango

When four classically trained musicians explore their passion for tango, the result is nothing short of delightful. Quartango takes tango in new directions, with impeccable arrangements, unexpected allusions to classical music and a dose of humour, woven together by the elegant interplay of ensemble playing at its best. The chemistry between the musicians and their engaging rapport with the audience create a memorable experience that always brings down the house.

Quartango is Richard Hunt, piano and arrangements, Douglas Schmidt, bandoneon, René Gosselin, double bass, and Charles-Étienne Marchand, violin. Together, they offer up a repertoire ranging from the classic tangos to tango nuevo and Piazzolla. They also explore other genres, from jazz and opera to waltzes and jigs, in their own inimitable style. Quartango has charmed audiences across Canada and the United States, and in Tokyo, Taipei, Paris and São Paulo. They stole the show at Carnegie Hall, in performance with the New York Pops, and have also appeared with the National Arts Centre Orchestra and the Orchestre métropolitain. This past summer, Quartango performed four outdoor concerts with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, attracting a total of more than 60,000 spectators.

Quartango has recorded five CDs on the Justin Time label, several of which have been honoured with awards. Their latest recording, Performance, was released in June 2003.

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