Idrîsî Ensemble

About the artist

Idrîsî Ensemble is a pioneering UK-based group that offers a fresh approach to historical performance, specializing in medieval repertoire from period manuscripts and UNESCO-protected/endangered traditions. Founded by Thomas Fournil during his fellowship at the Guildhall School of Music, the ensemble aims to present the Mediterranean as a space of cultural exchange rather than a border, drawing on medieval literature, music archaeology, and postcolonial historiography. They are the sole UK ensemble dedicated to performing Old Roman chant, providing a unique insight into the vocal traditions of late antiquity. Their performances are described as a "total gamechanger" and a "living, exploratory art of real power" by James Weeks, director of EXAUDI. The ensemble integrates diverse voices and traditions, sometimes premiering medieval pieces, and strives for a sound that is "humble, honest, and to sound as though it rises from the soul: free, powerful and raw, but also precise and relaxed". Their work often entwines decolonial investigations and oral traditions, with a focus on resurrecting lost music, such as that of the trobairitz (female troubadours). Latest news and endeavors for Idrîsî Ensemble include a series of upcoming concerts. They are scheduled to perform at the EFG London Jazz Festival on November 16, 2025, at the Union Chapel, where they will blend medieval and Mediterranean traditions with contemporary songs. Other confirmed dates in 2025 include "Navidad Nuestra: Early Music Christmas Concert" at Temple Church, London on December 13, 2024, (although the current date is October 2025, this is still listed as an upcoming event, suggesting it might be an annual performance or the date is flexible), "Sounds of Ancient Occitania" at Cheltenham College Chapel on July 10, 2025, "Through the Noise Presents" at Bristol Cathedral on September 20, 2025, at Leeds Minster on September 19, 2025, and at The Monastery Manchester on September 18, 2025. They recently released their debut single, "Otys Theos," a Roman Chant in Greek that incorporates musical traditions from Syria, Egypt, Jerusalem, and Constantinople.