BREATHE is a new CD of works for voices and early instruments by Toronto composer James Rolfe. Collaborating with acclaimed Canadian writers Andre Alexis (Giller Prize winner), Steven Heighton (Governor General's Award for Literature), and Anna Chatterton (Dora Award winner), Rolfe's music ranges from intense drama to ethereal lyricism, from virtuosic to serene, portraying the erotic and spiritual aspects of love and longing with his unmistakeable and intimate vocal writing. This recording features luminous performances from such stellar performers as Suzie LeBlanc, Alexander Dobson, Monica Whicher, and The Toronto Consort led by David Fallis. Canadian composer James Rolfe--"one of our most gifted composers"--has been performed to critical and audience acclaim across Canada and abroad. He is the recipient of awards including a Guggenheim Fellowship and the Jules Leger Prize for Chamber Music. His music has been described as "powerful and succinct", "monumental, mesmerizing, breathtaking", and "the triumphal event of the opera season...astonishing."

Artists

Laura Pudwell (mezzo-soprano), Katherine Hill (soprano), Suzie LeBlanc (soprano), Alexander Dobson (baritone), Michele DeBoer (soprano), Monica Whicher (soprano), Vicki St. Pierre (mezzo-soprano), Teri Dunn (soprano)

Toronto Consort, Exultate Chamber Singers, Toronto Masque Theatre Ensemble, David Fallis, Larry Beckwith