SOLO
““He is a musician who consistently masters each genre he approaches, adeptly imbuing each genre with a conspicuous creativity.””
My solo practice, Aerials, consist of a set of improvisations and compositional “signposts” exploring the clarinet and basset clariet's uncharted territories. Developed during a five-week residency in Italy at the 15th century Castello Civitella Ranieri, the music is complex and seductive, taking the listener inside the instrument. Technically, this project taps deeply into my inclination for the unexpected, from disembodied clarinets played simultaneously to flute-like melodies. Examining the way the instrument "reacts" to various acoustical spaces, this program is virtuosity coupled with stunning lyricism.
“Clarinetist François Houle is never less than excellent, performance- and composition-wise.”
— Exclaim!
Houle’s first solo recording since his highly acclaimed Aerials (Drip Audio), Meditations explores the uncharted sonic territories of the basset clarinet. These improvisations and compositions represent a new chapter in the clarinetist’s
impressive catalog, revealing a mesmerizing melodic sense inspired by the gorgeous acoustics of the Chiesa Parrocchiale di Cabbio, near Lugano. Beautifully
captured by master sound engineer Lara Persia, Houle’s performance is at times intimate, drawing the listener as close to the instrument as one could imagine, and at times forceful and emotionally charged.
Now available on BANDCAMP and all Digital Music Services
“Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous. Go listen to this!”
ElectroAerials
Song J
Over the last two years I’ve expanded my Aerials practice to include Electronics and loopers to enhance the polyrhythmic and polyphonic elements of my solo language.
video by Ben Henriques.