Ruckus is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2014 by a group of talented musicians who shared a passion for chamber music. The ensemble is based in New York City and is known for its innovative and dynamic performances that blend classical music with contemporary styles. The founding members of Ruckus were violinist Pala Garcia, violist Lizzie Burns, cellist Karen Ouzounian, and pianist Yegor Shevtsov. All four musicians had extensive experience performing in various orchestras and chamber groups, and they were eager to create a new ensemble that would allow them to explore their own artistic vision. From the beginning, Ruckus set out to challenge traditional notions of classical music performance. The ensemble's repertoire includes both classical works and contemporary pieces, and the musicians often incorporate improvisation and other experimental techniques into their performances. One of Ruckus's early highlights was a performance at the 2015 Bang on a Can Marathon, a renowned music festival that showcases innovative and boundary-pushing music. The ensemble's performance was well-received by both audiences and critics, and it helped to establish Ruckus as a rising star in the classical music world. Since then, Ruckus has gone on to perform at a variety of prestigious venues and festivals, including the Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, and the Ravinia Festival. The ensemble has also collaborated with a number of notable composers and performers, including Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Caroline Shaw and jazz pianist Vijay Iyer. In addition to its live performances, Ruckus has also released several critically acclaimed recordings. The ensemble's debut album, "The Ruckus Effect," was released in 2017 and features a mix of classical and contemporary works. The album received widespread praise for its innovative approach to classical music and its high level of musicianship. Over the years, Ruckus has received numerous awards and accolades for its performances and recordings. In 2016, the ensemble was awarded the Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming, which recognizes ensembles that push the boundaries of traditional chamber music performance. Ruckus has also been featured in a number of prominent music publications, including The New York Times and NPR Music. Despite its success, Ruckus remains committed to its mission of exploring new and innovative approaches to classical music performance. The ensemble continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in chamber music, and its members are dedicated to creating performances that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging.

More....