Chris Norman Ensemble

The Chris Norman Ensemble brings to life the energetic traditional dance music of Maritime Canada, Scotland, and Ireland with an emphasis on exploring points of contact with the music's roots in 16th through 19th century Europe. The Ensemble's programs combine originality, intelligence, fun, and sheer mastery that have won them respect from audiences, presenters, and colleagues alike in North America, Europe and Asia.

At the heart of the group is Chris Norman, whose brilliant and imaginative flute playing has contributed to groups as diverse as the The Baltimore Consort, Skyedance, Helicon, Chatham Baroque, Concerto Caledonia, as well as Hollywood soundtracks and seven solo recordings. His influential work as a performer, composer, recording artist, educator, and director of the Boxwood Festival & Workshop has played a significant role in reviving the flute in traditional Scottish and Canadian music.

The Ensemble's extraordinary range runs the gamut from dynamic performances headlining international folk festivals to programs for some of North America's most prestigious chamber and early music societies and universities. With flutes, pipes, guitar, mandolin, mandola, harmonium, bass, percussion, drums & vocals, the Ensemble reaches across five centuries of traditional, renaissance and baroque music with a range of energetic programs. Education and public service is at the core of the group's values, and they regularly incorporate workshops, school programs, and community outreach into their tours. —Courtesy Calabash Music