About the artist
Baroque reimagined
François Lazarevitch is one of the leading figures of early music in France. Although the flute is his primary instrument, his artistic work has always been devoted to the diversity of historical sources – both written and oral – essential for a vivid, contemporary interpretation of early Baroque and Baroque music.
Since 2006, his work has been shaped by his close collaboration with his ensemble Les Musiciens de Saint-Julien. With them, he shares an unbounded curiosity, a spirit of discovery, and a passion for forgotten repertoires as well as for artistic and cultural crossings. Together, they open up new perspectives on entire chapters of music history.
A central element of his artistic identity is rhythm – the pulse of dance, infusing every musical detail with flexibility, energy, and a profound sense of movement. This approach is also reflected in his critically acclaimed recording of Bach’s flute sonatas (Alpha Classics, “Choc” Classica), praised for its eloquent phrasing, inventiveness, and refined ornamentation.
Lazarevitch was trained not only by leading pioneers of early music, but also expanded his artistic horizon through Indian musical traditions, his passion for the Irish flute, and the practice of orally transmitted musical forms. These diverse influences form the foundation of a highly original and demanding artistic path. Today, he performs both flute and musette with remarkable virtuosity – the pastoral sound of the latter having become a defining hallmark of his ensemble.
As artistic director, he leads Les Musiciens de Saint-Julien on major stages in France and internationally. His numerous recordings for Alpha Classics are regularly acclaimed. He also collaborates with leading ensembles, choreographers, stage directors, and contemporary composers, continually broadening his artistic perspective. As a passionate collector of historical instruments and researcher, he also publishes editions of rediscovered repertoire.
François Lazarevitch teaches Baroque flute and musette at the Versailles Conservatory, where he passes on what has always driven him: “the freedom of breath – in the service of listening, understanding, and energy.”
