Ensemble Voltaire, formerly known as Ensemble Ouabache, marks its fifteenth anniversary with a national release of Quartets and Trios on the Catalpa Classics label, a CD recording featuring the chamber music of Georg Philipp Telemann. It is the group's first recording under the new name.

“charming….extroverted instrumental colors”
– Indianapolis Star

Bonporti Motets CD

Favorite soprano disc ever!
Reviewer: andrew j frishman January 13, 2000

One listen to this recording left me wondering why on earth Bonporti is virtually unknown. It is Baroque religious music (these motets were published in 1702), but rather unlike any other such music I have heard. Bonporti's writing has neither the austerity of the Germans, the pomp of the French, nor the usual bravura showiness of his fellow Italians. Rather than having the feel of a penitent, reverant worshiper, Ellen Hargis gives the impression of a charming young woman in love for the first time, full of longing, tenderness, joy, enthusiasm, and willingness to feel emotion. She is excellently supported by the Ensemble Ouabache (two violins, 'cello, theorbo, and organ) who shine like stars while she soars in front of them. Truly a desert island disc; the first aria, "Vos cheles", once caused a house guest of mine to come from the next room literally with tears in her eyes.