KARACHI, Jan 9: Internationally acclaimed French opera ensemble ‘Chants de Garonne’ will enthral Karachi’s discerning opera connoisseurs at the Pakistan Arts Council on January 12.

The performance has been organised by French Consul-General Pierre Seillan and is part of the Hamara Karachi festival.

The four member ensemble founded in 1991 by baritone Jean François Gardeil comprises soprano Véronique Guin, tenor Pierre Espiaut and pianist Fabien Prou.

The ensemble’s programme includes famous operettas like ‘La Vie Parisienne’ by Jacques Offenbach, ‘Véronique’ by André Messager, ‘le Roi d’Ys’ by Edouard Lalo, ‘La Veuve Joyeuse’ by Franz Lehar, ‘Ciboulette’ by Reynaldo Hahn, ‘Les Saltimbanques’» by Louis Gahn and famous French songs glorifying different aspects and characteristics of Paris and Parisian life.

The leader of the group, Jean François Gardeil is the recipient of the much coveted music award ‘Grand Prix de l’Académie Charles Gros’ and a member of the jury of the Geneva Conservatory. He has performed in more than 30 countries. The baritone par excellence has mesmerised opera lovers by his scintillating interpretations of the works of the great masters.