The Robert Minden Ensemble began in Vancouver, Canada in 1986 and quickly became internationally renown for its dramatic mix of narrative and music on found instruments. The core members were Robert Minden, daughters Andrea Minden (flute) and Dewi Minden (trumpet), and musician Carla Hallett (French horn). Together with visual artist Nancy Walker, they collaborated for ten years on performance and recording projects.
The inaugural recording of the Ensemble, THE BOY WHO WANTED TO TALK TO WHALES, was nominated for a 1990 JUNO award. This contemporary folk tale, scored for storyteller, percussion and invented instruments, was immediately heralded as a children's classic. "There has never, ever, been an album in Canada (or anywhere else) quite like this one for young listeners.” (Kitchener-Waterloo Record.) Then followed LONG JOURNEY HOME (1992), richly textured music for found and ancient sound sources; “a compelling aural adventure” (Canadian Composer magazine) ; and WHISPER IN MY EAR (1994), a celebration of the acoustic sounds of junk; "intelligence, humour, manic inventiveness and oceanic friendliness." (Gary Norris, Canadian Press 1994). The recordings are orchestrated with an improbable ensemble of abandoned objects and invented instruments; "absolutely baffling" (American Record Guide). Work in television included a ten-part series written and performed for SESAME STREET, and the CBC documentary, “The Music Maker” on Adrienne Clarkson Presents. Their video, “Music For Recycled Bottles” is seen regularly on PBS.
drawing: nancy walker
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