The holiday season is here and Frisson wants to spread some holiday cheer. Frisson has emerged as one of the most popular chamber music groups in America. The ensemble showcases both emerging young artists and seasoned professionals. We had the chance to sit down and chat with a few members of the group to get the inside scoop on their upcoming show, A Classic Christmas with Frisson on December 19.
As part of this 11-member ensemble, violinist Rachel Lanskey describes the group as “an orchestra without a conductor” giving the musicians “a chance to shine on stage without the pressure of performing in a duo or trio.” She shared that she is most excited to bring out her surprise instrument during the show. But when asked what instrument that might be, she coyly responds by saying, “You’ll just have to come and find out.”
“We’re really excited to be performing in Fort Collins,” says Bassoonist Remy Taghavi, “but the altitude is always a “fun” consideration for the wind players of the group.” Of course, playing at altitude isn’t Frisson’s only test. Frisson will perform in anywhere from 25-30 cities around the country with Fort Collins being one of its last stops for the 2024 calendar year. When asked how they keep the show and music fresh, Taghavi responds, “Because we have no conductor it always feels fresh. It’s never the same and we like to encourage our members to express themselves and be spontaneous when performing.” Lanskey also jokes, “We also change our outfits for each show.”
The word Frisson comes from the French word for shiver or a sudden strong feeling of excitement. It is best described as a sudden rush or wave of emotions that some people experience when listening to an emotive piece of music. Like when your favorite song gives you chills or goosebumps. Founding member Tom Gallant told us that the group chose this name because “it captures the scope of their concerts and performances” and they collectively consider themselves “surprisingly exciting and grandiose.”
You can expect all of your favorite classic Holiday songs as well as a mix of contemporary and jazz numbers and possibly even a sing-along. In this show you will be able to “hear something new and hear something you go way back with,” says Taghavi. When asked to describe the show he states, “The show is made up of serious musicians playing not serious music.”
Clearly, this performance promises to be fun for the whole family. Whether you are a seasoned classical music listener or someone who enjoys holiday music, there is something to get everyone into the holiday spirit.
Experience this festive show at The Lincoln Center on Saturday, December 19 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $23 and are available online at LCtix.com or by calling the Box Office at 970-221-6730.