François Marcaurelle Quartet

François Marcaurelle received his bachelor's degree in music from the University of Montreal in 1976 after working with reputable teachers such as Sayyd Abdul-al-Khabyyr and Art Robert (jazz), Serge Garant (contempory music), Jose Evangelista (classical music) and André Prévost (composition).

A few years later, he created a group called TASMAN which enabled many quebec musicians, namely Bernard Primeau, Guy Nadon, Jean-Pierre Zanella and Michel Donato to be promoted through the original works of the pianist and composer.

In 1986, François Marcaurelle, together with Richard Beaudet, Jim Hillman, Muhammad Abdul-al-Khabyyr, and Sylvain Provost, introduced a sextet which played regularly during the Montreal International Jazz Festival, in different Maisons de la culture and jazz nightclubs in Montreal. The sextet also broadcasted many shows or jazz sessions on CBC and Radio-Canada.

In January 1993, François Marcaurelle's launched his first album "Marcaurelle-Opus 1,7" with his sextet, newly expanded for the occasion, with Francine Martel and Ron di Lauro.

In parallel with the sextet, François Marcaurelle created, in 1988, a trio with Sylvain Provost and Normand Guilbeault. After seven years of regular appearances, "Marcaurelle-Opus 2,6" is launched in June 1995; a production of this collaboration.

In July 1996, the sextet rides again with "Opus 3,8". After ten years of collaboration the group performs Marcaurelle's compositions with a remarquable spirit and sensibility.

In spring 1999, the pianist produces his fourth CD, this time with a quartet. "Marcaurelle-Opus 4,7" brings together old colleagues Norman Lachapelle (electric bass), Sylvain Provost (guitar) and introduces the great drummer Denis Mailloux. This recording shows that François Marcaurelle is deeply rooted in jazz tradition (two standard tunes) while being involved in its evolution (seven originals). Moreover, the performing coherence and musicality of these four musicians enhance the specific characteristics in Marcaurelle's music.

Source: Effendi Records.