Ensemble Vivant — the core of which is piano, violin and cello — has been recording and performing to sold-out houses throughout North America and Europe for over 20 years. Their quest is to discover and reveal rarely heard but deserving works from the classical repertoire as well new versions of vastly diverse styles from jazz to musical theatre to Latin Dance. No matter the genre, the repertoire chosen for is timeless and at the same time new. Whether an old favorite or an intriguing discovery, each piece displays the ensemble’s radiant energy and attention to detail.

The group’s center is pianist Catherine Wilson. Repeatedly honored for her exceptional artistry and sensitive musicality, virtuoso pianist she is one of this generation’s most interesting and innovative classical instrumentalists. She has won the hearts of fans and critics alike with inspired, soulful interpretations. Her renditions of Chopin (described as “exquisite” by the Toronto Star) have been compared to the great Arthur Rubinstein. Ms. Wilson made her triumphant debut at Carnegie Hall in New York City in 2005 at the invitation of Maestro Skitch Henderson and the New York Pops where she performed the Leroy Anderson Piano Concerto.

Ensemble Vivant is dedicated to celebrating excellence in the performance and recording of great music, Catherine and the Ensemble are excited and proud to be able to introduce innovative artists and beautifully crafted music programs.

Notes on the music

Chamber Suite features the rarely recorded Sextet in D major for Piano and Strings, Op. 110 by Felix Mendelssohn as well as Max Bruch’s Trio in C minor, Op. 5. It also includes the world premiere recordings of Srul Irving Glick’s The Old Toronto Klezmer Suite for Piano and Strings. When the late Srul Irving Glick spoke with leader Catherine Wilson about writing a work for the Ensemble Vivant. Catherine suggested a quintet for piano, violin, viola, cello and double bass. Of the piece, Glick wrote “this work is based on klezmer style in a chamber music idiom. I wanted to express my deep love for the city of Toronto. I wrote this quintet for pianist Catherine Wilson and her Friends, performing the violin, viola, cello and double bass. Each movement reflects reminiscences of some aspect of my growing up in Toronto.”