Since its foundation in 2006 Nadar Ensemble has become a familiar presence in the international new music circuit. Taking their name from the pseudonym of author, balloonist and photography pioneer Gaspard-Félix Tournachon, hints at a deliberate maverick attitude.

Their artistic mission embraces specific aesthetic positions, involving alternative concert settings, electronics and multimedia. Three aspects identify Nadar’s particular position: their aesthetic preferences, their performance practice that goes beyond each musician mastering his or her instrument, and perhaps most importantly: the way the organization of the ensemble reflects a true collective spirit.

Sharing that artistic identity with younger generations of musicians, for example during the Nadar Summer Academy and the Nadar Summer School, has emerged as a significant part of Nadar’s mission.