In the years following World War I, as Paris reawakened to the arts, a groundbreaking chamber ensemble emerged—the Quintette Instrumental de Paris. Formed in 1922 by flutist René Leroy, this ensemble brought together some of the finest musicians of the era, including violinist René Bas, violist Pierre Grout, cellist Roger Boulmé, and harpist Marcel Grandjany(later succeeded by Pierre Jamet). Inspired by Claude Debussy’s innovative Sonata for Flute, Viola, and Harp, they expanded the sonic possibilities of chamber music, creating an intimate yet colorful tapestry of sound.

Their performances, spanning over 35 years, were celebrated for their exquisite blending of timbres and the discovery of new repertoire. With a commitment to both historic and contemporary compositions, they championed works by composers such as Joseph Jongen, André Jolivet, and Jacques Ibert. Their interpretations breathed life into music that bridged the elegance of the past with the vibrant energy of modernism.

This performance by the St. Johns Chamber Players seeks to transport audiences to postwar Paris—a city of artistic renaissance, where salons buzzed with intellectuals, and the music of Debussy, Ravel, and their successors shaped the cultural landscape. The quintet’s refined artistry was a reflection of this period, embodying a spirit of renewal and bold experimentation.

With this performance we honor their legacy with a selection of pieces that capture the quintet’s essence: a journey through French impressionism, classicism, and beyond. As you listen to compositions by Jongen, Guy Ropartz and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, imagine the cobblestone streets of Montparnasse, the glow of gas lamps, and the echo of a distant flute—a world where music was not just played but truly lived.

St Johns Chamber Players:

Rhonda Casanova, Flute

Aurica Duca, Violin

Yun-Tin Kuo, Viola

Ben Fryxell, Cello

Kayo Ishimaru, Harp