Described as creating a “mesmerizing musical experience” by combining his “deep personal connection” (Toronto Live Music Report), praised for a “luscious tone and technical prowess” (Vancouver Sun), cellist Ariel Barnes is internationally recognized for his unique tone and passionate performances.

Equally comfortable in musical languages from the Baroque to music of modern times, he performs programs that range from evenings of unaccompanied Bach to world premières of contemporary art music. He has been hailed as a “rising star” by the Georgia Straight and “a musician of real stature” by the Vancouver Sun.

His solo and chamber music recordings have been nominated for a Juno Award and two Western Canadian Music Awards. One half of the contemporary music duo Couloir, Ariel is actively involved in the development of 21st century art music. Couloir recently released their debut CD, Wine Dark Sea on Ravello Records, showcasing world première recordings of original compositions written especially for this beautiful and rare combination of cello and harp.

As a winner of the 2012 Canada Council Instrument Bank Competition, he was awarded the use, for three years, of the 1730 Newland Joannes Franciscus Celoniatus cello, made in Turin, Italy. In January 2013 Ariel was appointed Principal Cello of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.