The Green and Pleasant Band is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2008 in the United Kingdom. The group is known for its unique blend of classical and folk music, which has earned them a reputation as one of the most innovative and exciting ensembles in the country. The founding members of the Green and Pleasant Band were violinist and composer, Chris Green, and accordionist and composer, Sophie Matthews. The two musicians had previously worked together in various other musical projects and decided to form their own ensemble to explore their shared interest in combining classical and folk music. The group's name is taken from the famous line in William Blake's poem, "And did those feet in ancient time," which refers to England's "green and pleasant land." This name reflects the group's commitment to exploring the rich musical traditions of the British Isles and their desire to create music that is both rooted in tradition and innovative in its approach. The Green and Pleasant Band's main members include Chris Green on violin, Sophie Matthews on accordion, Jude Rees on flute and whistle, and Dan Quinn on guitar and mandolin. The group's lineup has evolved over the years, with various musicians joining and leaving the ensemble, but the core members have remained the same. One of the highlights of the Green and Pleasant Band's career was their performance at the 2012 Olympic Games in London. The group was invited to perform at the Olympic Park as part of the Cultural Olympiad, which was a series of events celebrating the arts and culture of the United Kingdom. The Green and Pleasant Band's performance was well-received by both the audience and critics, and it helped to raise the group's profile both nationally and internationally. Another notable performance by the Green and Pleasant Band was their appearance at the 2014 Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow, Scotland. The group was invited to perform as part of the festival's "New Voices" series, which showcases emerging talent in the Celtic music scene. The Green and Pleasant Band's performance was praised for its innovative approach to blending classical and folk music, and it helped to establish the group as one of the most exciting new ensembles in the genre. In addition to their live performances, the Green and Pleasant Band has also released several critically acclaimed albums. Their debut album, "The Green and Pleasant Band," was released in 2010 and was praised for its inventive arrangements and virtuosic performances. The group's second album, "Frost on Fiddles," was released in 2013 and featured a mix of traditional and original compositions. The album was well-received by critics and helped to establish the Green and Pleasant Band as one of the most exciting new ensembles in the British folk music scene. The Green and Pleasant Band has also received several awards and accolades for their work. In 2011, the group was awarded the "Best Live Act" award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, which is one of the most prestigious awards in the British folk music scene. The group was also nominated for the "Best Group" award at the same ceremony in 2013. Overall, the Green and Pleasant Band is a unique and innovative ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the British folk music scene.

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