SHORT BIOGRAPHY

Marie-Chantal Leclair — artistic director, soprano saxophone
Mathieu Leclair — alto saxophone
André Leroux — tenor saxophone
Jean-Marc Bouchard — baritone saxophone  

Renowned for their energy, unique sonority and fearless innovation, the four members of Quasar have been exploring the multiple facets of musical creation since its foundation in 1994. A highly versatile ensemble, they demonstrate exceptional artistry across a wide spectrum of genres and asthetics from acoustic works and improvisation to cutting-edge electronics, music-theatre and multidisciplinary productions.

Their artistic excellence has earned them 11 OPUS Awards from the Conseil québécois de la musique — including the coveted “Artist of the Year” prize — confirming their status as one of Canada’s most influential contemporary music ensembles. A powerhouse of artistic innovation, Quasar is celebrated for its close collaborations with today’s composers. By embracing research, experimentation, and bold creative risks, the quartet brings to life concerts that are daring, immersive, and unmistakably original. More than 200 new works have been commissioned and premiered by the ensemble, making a profound contribution to the development of contemporary repertoire and musical ideas.

Quasar is supported by the Canada Council for the Arts, the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec, the Conseil des arts de Montréal and Vandoren.