Jordi Savall

Jordi Savall, a highly influential figure in the historical performance movement, has been instrumental in popularizing early stringed instruments and exploring cultural connections between Europe, the Middle East, and Africa during the medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque eras through his recordings. Born in Igualada, Spain in 1941, Savall's musical journey began in a school choir and later led him to study viola da gamba with renowned musicians in Belgium and Switzerland. In 1974, he co-founded the renowned instrumental ensemble Hespèrion XX with his wife, soprano Montserrat Figueras, and went on to establish La Capella Reial de Catalunya and Le Concert des Nations, expanding his repertoire to include vocal-instrumental and broader historical music.

Savall's career has been marked by numerous accolades, with over 200 albums released through labels like EMI, Naïve, and Alia Vox, the latter of which he founded in 1996. Known for his elaborate booklet notes and diverse collaborations with musicians from various traditions, Savall's work extends beyond early music circles, as seen in his exploration of the relationship between Europe and colonized lands. Despite his senior years, he continues to release multiple albums annually, showcasing his versatility and commitment to musical exploration, with recent releases reflecting a blend of traditional folk music and contemporary themes. Savall's contributions have earned him prestigious awards, including being named a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor by the French government and receiving recognition as an Artist for Peace.