Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Classical

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Agora Ensemble is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2012 by a group of musicians who shared a passion for contemporary music. The ensemble is based in New York City and is known for its innovative programming and dynamic performances. The founding members of Agora Ensemble were flutist Hannah Levinson, clarinetist Vasko Dukovski, violinist Miranda Cuckson, cellist Lauren Radnofsky, and pianist Blair McMillen. All of these musicians had extensive experience performing contemporary music and were interested in exploring new and experimental works. From the beginning, Agora Ensemble set out to challenge traditional notions of classical music performance. The ensemble's name, "agora," is a reference to the ancient Greek marketplace, where people would gather to exchange ideas and engage in debate. This concept of open dialogue and exchange is central to the ensemble's approach to music-making. One of the highlights of Agora Ensemble's early years was its residency at the Avaloch Farm Music Institute in New Hampshire. During this residency, the ensemble worked closely with several composers, including David Lang, Hannah Lash, and Christopher Cerrone, to develop new works. The ensemble also gave several performances at the institute, showcasing its innovative programming and virtuosic playing. In 2014, Agora Ensemble was invited to perform at the MATA Festival in New York City. This festival, which stands for "Music at the Anthology," is dedicated to promoting new and experimental music. Agora Ensemble's performance at the festival was well-received, and the ensemble was praised for its "fearless and committed" playing. Over the years, Agora Ensemble has continued to push the boundaries of classical music performance. The ensemble has collaborated with a wide range of composers, including John Zorn, Missy Mazzoli, and Du Yun, to create new works that challenge traditional notions of form and structure. One of the ensemble's most notable collaborations was with composer and saxophonist Steve Lehman. In 2017, Agora Ensemble premiered Lehman's "Ten Threshold Studies" at the Miller Theatre in New York City. This work, which was commissioned by the ensemble, explores the intersections between jazz and contemporary classical music and features complex rhythms and intricate harmonies. In addition to its collaborations with composers, Agora Ensemble has also worked with a number of visual artists and choreographers to create multimedia performances. One such performance was "The Memory Palace," which was created in collaboration with visual artist Kevork Mourad. This performance, which premiered at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, featured live music and animation projected onto a large screen. Agora Ensemble has received numerous awards and accolades for its innovative programming and virtuosic playing. In 2016, the ensemble was awarded a grant from the New York State Council on the Arts to support its performances and educational outreach programs. The ensemble has also been featured in several publications, including The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal. Today, Agora Ensemble continues to be a leading force in the world of contemporary classical music. The ensemble's commitment to innovation and experimentation has earned it a reputation as one of the most exciting and dynamic ensembles in the field.

More....