An Interview with Quasar's Artistic Visionary
The "Portrait" series highlights the inspiring figures and organizations within the Percumedia client community.
Introducing a beacon of cultural innovation, the Quasar Saxophone Quartet, led by the visionary artistic director, Marie-Chantal Leclair.
Marie-Chantal Leclair's journey into music began in her formative years, nurtured by her family and school environment. The saxophone captivated her heart in high school, igniting a passionate pursuit of musical excellence at Cégep St-Laurent and Université de Montréal under the mentorship of Professor René Masino, where she earned her bachelor's and master's degrees.
Upon completing her master's, her mentor's advice encouraged her to embark on a professional journey.
"Realize that as a budding expert in contemporary saxophone, the world isn't beating a path to your door!"
Marie-Chantal seized the reins of her future, founding the Quasar Saxophone Quartet in 1994 with fellow music enthusiasts.
Embarking on an Unwavering Mission
Quasar's foundation is deeply rooted in family: alongside Marie-Chantal, it includes her husband, Jean-Marc Bouchard, her brother Mathieu Leclair, and longtime friend, André Leroux. This quartet remains harmonious after 23 years—a remarkable testament to their enduring alliance.
Their bond thrives on a shared artistic vision: pioneering creative music and fostering innovation in repertoire. Each member evolves individually, yet their collective mission remains steadfast.
"Chamber music, in its intimate essence, offers the perfect blend of collaborative synergy and individual artistry."
The group's longevity stems from gradual success, cultivated over years. Enhanced creative environments have fueled their dedication and passion.
Melding artistic endeavor with rigorous preparation, they dedicate a minimum of 9 hours weekly to rehearsal, sustaining their technical and artistic heights.
Quasar’s Empowering Management
The quartet juggles artistic pursuits and pivotal management roles. Originating with project-specific operations, Marie-Chantal initially steered most administrative duties. Transitioning to long-term management, other members have progressively embraced more responsibilities.
Decisions are made collectively, with management roles divided amongst Marie-Chantal, overseeing artistic endeavors, Jean-Marc, guiding operations, and Mathieu, managing finances—solidifying Quasar's self-managed artistic identity.
Supported by external specialists in design, web, media relations, and more, they maintain a dynamic and efficient network adeptly meeting the group's unique needs.
Spearheading Artistic Direction
As the guiding artistic force, Marie-Chantal unites the team around their shared vision, curating the group's programming while inviting contributions from all. Her role is to nurture this vision, ensuring all actions align.
She also conducts research, staying attuned to global trends and developments, forging connections with symphonies, groups, composers, and cultural entities worldwide.
"Our standing in the fiercely competitive arts scene is bolstered by a vibrant identity, which the artistic director must continuously enrich."
The Essence of a Resounding Melody
Music appreciation intertwines rationality with pure emotion—a conduit for shared experience. Music should surprise and convey profound intent, resonating strongly on its own terms.
A captivating melody invites repeated listening, revealing new dimensions each time. For Marie-Chantal, originality and distinct voice are paramount in creating an unforgettable impact.
The Art of Listening to Music
For Marie-Chantal, an eager listener is marked by curiosity and openness, welcoming art without bias. Demanding yet curious, they seek to uncover the depths music offers.
On stage, artists respond to audiences' pulses, forging connections initiated by the performer’s openness and trust-building.
Quasar thrives on reaching audiences, transcending comfort zones to embrace public performances.
Upcoming Adventures
In late September, they perform at Montreal's Jean-Talon Market, followed by an October 1st performance with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra. Next, a creative residency in Vancouver precedes an exciting new project, the Quasar-chestra, blending talents of up to 12 saxophonists. Discover more on the calendar of Quasar's website.