Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Orchestral

 

North/South Chamber Orchestra is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1980 by conductor Max Lifchitz. The ensemble is based in New York City and is known for its commitment to performing contemporary classical music from both established and emerging composers. Max Lifchitz, a Mexican-born pianist and composer, founded the North/South Chamber Orchestra with the goal of creating a platform for contemporary classical music. Lifchitz had previously founded the New York Miniature Ensemble, which focused on performing short works by contemporary composers. However, he wanted to create a larger ensemble that could perform longer works and showcase the diversity of contemporary classical music. The North/South Chamber Orchestra is made up of a core group of musicians, including Lifchitz himself on piano, as well as a rotating cast of guest performers. The ensemble has performed in a variety of venues throughout New York City, including Carnegie Hall, Merkin Concert Hall, and the Americas Society. One of the highlights of the North/South Chamber Orchestra's performances was their 1992 concert at Carnegie Hall, which featured the world premiere of Lifchitz's own composition, "Yellow Ribbons No. 40." The piece was written in honor of the American hostages who were held in Iran for 444 days in the late 1970s. The concert also featured works by other contemporary composers, including David Del Tredici and Robert Martin. In addition to their performances in New York City, the North/South Chamber Orchestra has also toured internationally. In 1995, the ensemble performed in Mexico City as part of the Festival Internacional Cervantino. The concert featured works by Mexican composers, including Carlos Chávez and Silvestre Revueltas, as well as Lifchitz's own compositions. Over the years, the North/South Chamber Orchestra has received numerous awards and accolades for their performances and recordings. In 1993, the ensemble was awarded the ASCAP-Chamber Music America Award for Adventurous Programming. The award recognized the ensemble's commitment to performing contemporary classical music and their willingness to take risks with their programming choices. The North/South Chamber Orchestra has also released several recordings over the years, including Lifchitz's own compositions as well as works by other contemporary composers. In 1996, the ensemble released a CD titled "Music of the Americas," which featured works by composers from North and South America, including Lifchitz, Chávez, and Aaron Copland. In addition to their performances and recordings, the North/South Chamber Orchestra has also been involved in educational outreach programs. The ensemble has worked with schools and community organizations to introduce young people to contemporary classical music and to encourage them to pursue careers in music. Overall, the North/South Chamber Orchestra has made a significant contribution to the world of contemporary classical music. Through their performances, recordings, and educational outreach programs, the ensemble has helped to promote the work of emerging composers and to expand the boundaries of classical music.

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