Ensemble Klang is a contemporary classical music ensemble based in The Hague, Netherlands. The ensemble was founded in 2003 by a group of young musicians who were studying at the Royal Conservatory of The Hague. The founding members of the ensemble were Pete Harden (guitar), Saskia Lankhoorn (piano), Erik-Jan de With (percussion), and Joey Marijs (percussion). The ensemble's name, "Klang," is the German word for "sound." The name reflects the ensemble's focus on exploring the possibilities of sound in contemporary classical music. Ensemble Klang is known for its innovative and experimental approach to music-making, and its members are committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in contemporary classical music. Over the years, Ensemble Klang has grown and evolved, with new members joining and others leaving. The current members of the ensemble are Pete Harden (guitar), Saskia Lankhoorn (piano), Erik-Jan de With (percussion), Joey Marijs (percussion), Anton van Houten (saxophone), and Yanna Pelser (violin). Ensemble Klang has performed at major festivals and venues throughout Europe and beyond, including the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival, the Gaudeamus Muziekweek, the Holland Festival, the Berliner Festspiele, and the Donaueschinger Musiktage. The ensemble has also collaborated with a wide range of composers and artists, including Louis Andriessen, Michael Gordon, David Lang, Julia Wolfe, and Bryce Dessner. One of the highlights of Ensemble Klang's career was its performance of Michael Gordon's "Timber" at the Holland Festival in 2014. "Timber" is a piece for six percussionists playing amplified wooden planks, and it requires a high level of precision and coordination. Ensemble Klang's performance of the piece was widely praised for its energy, precision, and musicality. Ensemble Klang has also received numerous awards and accolades for its work. In 2010, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Kersjesprijs, which is given annually to a young ensemble or musician in the Netherlands. The award recognized Ensemble Klang's "innovative and adventurous programming, its high level of musicianship, and its commitment to new music." In addition to its performances and collaborations, Ensemble Klang is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly gives workshops and masterclasses for young musicians, and it has developed a program called "Klang in de Klas" (Klang in the Classroom) that brings contemporary classical music to primary schools in the Netherlands. Ensemble Klang's commitment to innovation and experimentation has made it one of the most exciting and dynamic ensembles in contemporary classical music. With its talented and dedicated members, the ensemble is sure to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in music for years to come.

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