Jouissance was formed to explore the dialogues between ancient chant and contemporary culture. The musicians share a fascination with the mysticism, sensuality and rapture found in the works of Hildegard of Bingen , Peter Abelard and the Byzantine Rite .
Distanced by both time and place from the cultural centres in which this music originated, Jouissance is both a homage and a critical renewal of ancient chant; a uniquely Antipodean response to these texts. Since its inception in 1994, Jouissance has performed at major arts festivals such the Adelaide Festival of Arts and the Melbourne Festival of the Arts and toured internationally to Norway and Estonia . "It is unlikely there is any other body - at least in this country - making the same fascinating sounds with such skill, insight and the ability to move the spirit as Jouissance ."
"It was an enthralling experience, meditative, impassioned, sensual and uplifting, with moments of striking beauty..." "Australians charmed with a concert of originality...Intangibly archaic and exhilarating... Jouissance filled Pärnu Town Hall , adding an extraordinary and innovative touch to the festival. " Jouissance's concert was a prime example of the unique experience granted by an unprejudiced and innovative approach to medieval music."
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Deborah Kayser - Soprano
The engagement with this music is informed by the diverse nature of the performers' experience: from New Complexity to Minimalism , from Japanese Zen to Jazz- Rock crossover, from Blues and Ethnic music to all forms of Opera . 