UnderStories is a Baroque ensemble consisting of only bass instruments inspired by the botanical term “understory,” referring to the layer of plants that grow in the shade of the canopy of a forest. Founded in 2018, the group focuses on exploring the rise of the cello as a solo instrument, and especially the repertoire for two concertante cellos in the 18th century. The French-Italian ensemble, initially consisting of two cellos and a harpsichord, decided to add an arpa doppia and a violone to enrich the sound of the group.

Their debut album features music by Louis-François-Joseph Patouart, Joseph Bodin de Boismortier, Michel Corrette, Jean-Baptiste Barrière, Martin Berteau, and Jean-Philippe Rameau.