Stand out.

Berlin celebrates its 12 cellists. Amsterdam shines with its 8.

And Montreal? Today, it reveals the voice of its 9.

About —

Les 9 de Montréal

Founded and directed by cellist and composer Vincent Bélanger, Les 9 de Montréal is a variable ensemble, bringing together high-level musicians around a simple idea: to offer the public a lively, accessible, and profoundly human musical experience.

Navigating between classical works, original creations, and custom arrangements, Les 9 de Montréal showcases the richness of Quebec and Canadian composers, while building bridges with universal repertoires. The ensemble is distinguished by its collaborative approach, where each musician becomes an actor in the creation, in constant dialogue with the musical director.

Beyond concerts, Les 9 de Montréal is involved in sound production projects, cultural events, and international exchanges, with the mission of making chamber music vibrant and essential for today's audience.

Listen carefully (excerpt from a Les9 hit)

Por Una Cabeza by Les 9!

Carlos Gardel (1890–1935)

Arrangement by cellist James Barralet.

Recorded in 2019 for the album Adaptations by Les 9 de Montréal, this version of Por una cabeza, the famous tango by Carlos Gardel, is based on an original arrangement for four cellos by James Barralet (born in 1979). Vincent Bélanger offers here a bold re-orchestration for eight cellos and double bass, giving the work a new scope and a striking harmonic richness.

Only one addition was made: an original introduction composed and performed by cellist and composer Émilie Girard-Charest, who prepares the entry of the theme with finesse and sensitivity.

This version is also distinguished by its fugue finale, of remarkable dramatic power, which closes the piece in a virtuoso and poignant burst.