Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in an audio event that stood out from the usual gatherings focused exclusively on equipment. Here, the main star was the music, and the musician, with the equipment serving as a support to provide a unique auditory experience. This event was held at Exaudio, the Portuguese distributor of Audio Note (UK), the prestigious British audio equipment manufacturer, and featured the brand’s musical ambassador, the Canadian cellist Vincent Belanger.
Adventures and Creative Solutions
Vincent Belanger’s first trip to Portugal did not start well, with his cello arriving in Lisbon damaged. João Pina, head of Exaudio, resorted to the inventive and supportive Portuguese spirit to solve the problem. Thanks to the recommendation of his client, Hilary Alper, cellist of the Portuguese Symphony Orchestra at the National Theatre of São Carlos, a luthier managed to repair Belanger’s instrument, and Alper generously lent his own cello to ensure that the event could proceed as planned.
The Performance and the Magic of Audio
At the event, Vincent Belanger played both solo and accompanied by Audio Note’s audio components. The performance was enriched by the comparison between the live sound of the cello and the musical reproduction by the high-fidelity equipment from the brand, creating a unique sound experience. This setup allowed the attendees to appreciate the difference between two cellos with distinct sonic signatures, resulting in an enriching discussion about the various aspects that influence music reproduction and consumption.
The presence of Hilary Alper added an extra layer of interest to the event. Both musicians had the opportunity to play both instruments, providing a moment of celebration of music and collaboration.
Interview with Vincent Belanger
I took the opportunity to interview Vincent Belanger. This conversation revolved around the importance of pushing the boundaries of music and creating unique experiences for audiophiles. Vincent Belanger mentioned the value of mixing different styles and genres, emphasizing the need for an emotional connection in audio and music. He also highlighted the importance of proper audio setup, acknowledging the challenges of finding the right balance between quality and cost. Belanger stressed the importance of respecting standards and using the right tools for the job, while emphasizing the need for a human touch in the tuning process when creating equipment.
In summary, this interview highlighted how the music industry can better promote music and maximize audio systems by focusing more on the emotional experience.
Vítor: Who is Vincent Belanger and what is your artistic background?
Vincent: I am the musical ambassador for Audio Note UK and have been representing them globally for eight years. My first collaboration with Audio Note was 10 years ago in New York City. My musical background is primarily in classical music. I come from a musical family, with my great-grandfather being a musician in Paris before World War One. I studied cello in Quebec City and then completed my studies in France for four years. When I returned, I engaged in various projects, including Baroque and modern music, and then served as the director of a music school for young people. I released an album titled “Là,” and shortly after, I met Audio Note. Since then, I’ve worked exclusively with them for the past eight years.
I enjoy discussing music and composing, as you heard in the demo—it’s my own composition. My style blends classical and Baroque influences, but my music is simple and emotional. Without emotion, it’s meaningless.
I live in Montreal, with my 18-year-old daughter and my dog of two years.
Vítor: What are your main influences and how are they reflected in your work?
Vincent: Musically, I had a masterclass with Yo-Yo Ma, whose vision I admire. His album “Obrigado Brazil” encouraged me to explore beyond classical music. Additionally, Audio Note has significantly influenced my recording approach. Unlike other industries that compress everything, Audio Note allows creative freedom with sound dynamics, which I appreciate as a composer. Initially, my compositions were acoustic-focused, but exploring electronic music has been transformative. Audio Note provides a fantastic playground for creativity.
Vítor: So, you’re not confined to classical music?
Vincent: No, I never felt confined. For example, my album “Là” includes both “Ave Maria” and a disco piece. People often wonder about my musical identity, but I embrace diversity and avoid barriers between styles. I respect specialists in modern music and appreciate what rock music has achieved in terms of tonality and technicality. Music is like humanity—diverse and expressive. It’s about sharing experiences, whether in a listening room with a high-end system or enjoying local music on vinyl.
Vítor: Are people more focused on the machines than on the music?
Vincent: Some people invest heavily in equipment and take pride in it, which is fine. However, it’s crucial not to lose sight of the human element behind the music.
Vítor: Is the price justified?
Vincent: Yes, it is. We don’t produce in large quantities like cars, and everything is handmade. This craftsmanship justifies the cost. Audio Note operates on different levels, ensuring quality sound across all products. For instance, the Meishu amplifier has evolved with new components and improved performance. The Cobra amplifier, even at a basic level, offers remarkable sound quality.
Vítor: What challenges do you face as an artist, and how do you overcome them?
Vincent: The main challenge is maintaining my value and reputation to ensure full concert halls. My goal is to extend my reputation beyond the Hi-Fi community. Working with Audio Note has no obligations, allowing me to represent the brand musically while exploring creative projects. The next challenge is to uphold the high standards of the Audio Note Music label and incorporate diverse elements into my compositions.
Vítor: How has your experience as Audio Note’s musical ambassador been?
Vincent: It’s been incredible. Meeting people like João in Portugal has enriched my cultural experiences. These connections offer a deep dive into local cultures and music. I enjoy sharing and discovering new music with people who might not have experienced live performances before.
Vítor: Does your partnership with Audio Note influence your musical approach?
Vincent: Absolutely. I feel more freedom as a creator and interpreter. My next project, for instance, will feature cello and organ—something I wouldn’t have pursued without Audio Note’s encouragement.
Vítor: Has Audio Note freed you from the classical approach?
Vincent: Yes, completely. My next projects include cello and organ, and cello and double bass, reflecting this newfound freedom.
Conclusion
This event organized by Exaudio was a celebration of music and high fidelity, providing attendees with a unique and enriching auditory experience. The interview with Vincent Belanger revealed his passion for exploring new musical territories and his dedication to creating emotional experiences through music. This initiative not only highlighted the importance of the music itself but also the capability of high-fidelity equipment to enhance that experience, making it unforgettable for all participants.