Spartimu: Pulifunie di Corsica

Event information

Spartimu is 6 singers who continue the Corsican tradition of small groups of men singing in gorgeous polyphony. It's a unique, haunting sound, part of the spectrum of multipart song found in most corners of the world, but instantly identifiable as its own thing. We're immensely privileged to have this group at Ashburton Arts Centre as part of its UK tour – do take this opportunity to see something really extraordinary: you won't regret it!
Watch Spartimu here on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/_vJwLQoQLPM?si=M6G2Rhj4wNG57-do&t=657
This video jumps straight in at the beginning of a piece – scroll back to hear one of the members talk about the group and its music, plus some of the Corsican landscapes which are, again, like nowhere else on earth.

Whilst deeply rooted in their research and practice of Corsican songs, Spartimu’s projects also take in the traditions of several other countries. The encounters they create between music, repertoires and practices that are at first glance very distant have become a trademark of the ensemble, and give an ever-changing and endlessly interesting and surprising experience for their audiences.

The ensemble has performed in Sardinia, Lithuania, Georgia, Chicago and Melbourne (Australia), and been recorded and documented by the US Library of Congress, as well as providing original music for the recent Ridley Scott film, Napoleon, and is featured in an upcoming episode of the BBC TV series Great Railway Journeys.

“I have been so fortunate to work with Frederic Vesperini and Spartimu for several years and can not recommend them highly enough.” Karla Mundy, Director, SongRoots, Vancouver BC

“Spartimu bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to their encounters with audiences and workshop participants as they take them on a fascinating journey into Corsica's captivating musical heritage.” Professor Caroline Bithell, Professor of Ethnomusicology, University of Manchester

“A real sense of culture and place.”
“This was a very special night. Absolutely beautiful music. Those notes were ringing.”
“An awesome evening of entertainment. Not to be missed!”
Audience members, Melbourne, Australia

The singers on this tour are:
Frederic Vesperini
Laurent Boulet
Stéphane Gutierrez
Gregory Innocenti
Don-Baptiste Sansonetti
Sébastien Pierre Toussaint

Presented in association with Pitchblend

Ashburton Arts Centre
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