EKKOZONE is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2010 by a group of young musicians who shared a passion for contemporary music. The ensemble is based in Copenhagen, Denmark, and is known for its innovative and experimental approach to classical music. The founding members of EKKOZONE were violinist Kirstine Schneider, cellist Johanne Birkeland, and pianist Christian Westergaard. They were later joined by clarinetist Jesper Egelund and percussionist Mathias Reumert. The ensemble's name, EKKOZONE, is a reference to the concept of an echo zone, where sound waves bounce back and forth between two surfaces. From the beginning, EKKOZONE set out to explore the boundaries of classical music and to challenge traditional notions of what a classical music ensemble should be. They began by commissioning new works from contemporary composers and performing them in unconventional venues, such as art galleries and abandoned factories. One of the ensemble's early highlights was their performance at the 2011 SPOR Festival in Aarhus, Denmark. They performed a program of contemporary works by composers such as Simon Steen-Andersen and Niels Rønsholdt, and received critical acclaim for their innovative approach to the music. In 2012, EKKOZONE released their debut album, "Echoes of the Past," which featured works by composers such as György Ligeti and Luciano Berio. The album was well-received by critics and helped to establish the ensemble as one of the leading contemporary classical music groups in Denmark. Over the years, EKKOZONE has continued to push the boundaries of classical music, collaborating with artists from other genres and experimenting with new forms of performance. In 2016, they collaborated with the Danish electronic music duo Den Sorte Skole on a project called "Symphony of Now," which combined classical music with electronic beats and visuals. In addition to their innovative performances, EKKOZONE has also been recognized for their contributions to contemporary classical music. In 2014, they were awarded the Danish Music Critics' Prize for their album "Echoes of the Past," and in 2017 they received the prestigious Carl Nielsen Prize for their contributions to Danish music. Today, EKKOZONE continues to be a leading force in the world of contemporary classical music, performing regularly in Denmark and abroad. They remain committed to exploring new forms of expression and pushing the boundaries of what classical music can be.

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