One of the best-kept secrets in the world of Baroque and Classical chamber orchestra music is the 15-member ensemble Les Violons du Roy. Founded in 1984 by director Bernard Labadie, the Quebec-based orchestra offers an effective blend of ancient and contemporary: modern instruments played with period bows and performing style. The results are exceptionally brilliant, focused sound and uncommonly clear articulation, and an ensemble unity that many better-known groups lack. Of course, much of this is due to the virtuosic technique all the players seem to possess, and to Labadie’s assured leadership. This recording of various concertos for strings features solo and ensemble work worthy of any “best-of” list, a performance standard that defines all six of the ensemble’s recordings for Dorian, and is even more impressive in the group’s live performances. And not only is the playing impressive, but the intelligent programming and detailed but eminently readable liner notes add even greater value to a production already at the top of its class.
