Medinea Session is a unique ensemble of 23 talented musicians, the majority of whom are from the Mediterranean world. The group’s particular character stems both from its individual mix of instruments and its innovative musical ideas; each player is not only a composer but also a soloist of the highest level, a combination that gives the ensemble’s music an unparalleled richness and diversity. The players’ cultural heritages range from jazz to Gnawa via Turkish, Arabic, and Balkan musical traditions, all of which are blended seamlessly into the ensemble’s repertoire.

Under the attentive ear of Fabrizio Cassol, these young artists exchange ideas and create a unique repertoire based on oral traditions in which the memorisation of these shared ideas takes priority over traditional notated scores. This innovative approach transcends the traditional boundaries of Western and becomes a true way of life, one in which mutual sharing forges deep human and artistic bonds regardless of genre or identity.

The distinctive sound of Medinea Session conjures up emotions that range from the deepest melancholy to the most joyful exaltation, a reflection not only of the great migrations of souls that have marked the history of the Mediterranean but also of the luminous strength of hope. These talented young players embody the vitality of this region at the same time as they pay homage to its traditions and its challenges.

Claron McFadden, an iconic soprano with a unique journey, here joins the ensemble for a powerful and wondrous celebration of the Mediterranean. Medinea Session evolved within the Orchestre des Jeunes de la Méditerranée of the Festival d’Art Lyrique d'Aix-en-Provence.