Launched in 2015, ‘Latitudes’ is a new series from the Harmonia Mundi classical music label dedicated to ‘classical musics of the world’. The series is dedicated to recording musicians who, though they operate within the framework of traditional music, bring new light to their art. Their intention is not to challenge the musical traditions of their own countries, but to enrich with invention and creativity.

In the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC, the civilisation of Thrace was that of an adventurous and inquisitive people, open to exchange with other cultures, and as such, is rather a beautiful metaphor for the ensemble that has gathered around Jean-Guihen Queyras, a musician not as far removed from his classical repertoire as you might think. From the captivating percussion of the Chemirani brothers, who grew up alongside Queyras on the hillsides of Haute Provence, to the magical lyra of Sokratis Sinopoulos, these ‘Sunday morning sessions’ open gateways into undiscovered musical worlds. Contemporary exploration, improvisation and the traditional music of the Mediterranean converge, all swept up in the same powerful and irresistible spirit.