The typically English musical ‘phantasy’ form appeared near the end of the 16th c., prominently in the work of Byrd and Gibbons. Henry Purcell was one of the last of the 17th c. composers devoted to the genre before its decline. Its 19th c. rebirth led to works by, amongst numerous others, Frank Bridge. Olivier Penard’s (b. 1974) music is positioned at the crossroads of contemporary creativity, minimalist currents, jazz, and film music. Founded in 2000, the Ensemble Contraste aim for original programming of music from classical to tango, musical comedy, jazz, and contemporary creativity.
