Ensemble Chameleon is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2012 by a group of musicians who shared a passion for chamber music. The ensemble is based in New York City and is known for its innovative programming and virtuosic performances. The founding members of Ensemble Chameleon were violinist Emilie-Anne Gendron, cellist Hannah Collins, and pianist Fei-Fei Dong. All three musicians had extensive experience performing as soloists and chamber musicians, and they were eager to explore the rich repertoire of chamber music together. From the beginning, Ensemble Chameleon was committed to presenting a diverse range of music, from the classical canon to contemporary works. The ensemble's name reflects this commitment to versatility and adaptability, as chameleons are known for their ability to change color and blend in with their surroundings. Over the years, Ensemble Chameleon has expanded its roster to include a number of guest artists, but the core trio of Gendron, Collins, and Dong remains at the heart of the ensemble. Together, they have performed in some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and festivals, earning critical acclaim for their technical prowess and musical sensitivity. One of Ensemble Chameleon's most notable performances was at the 2014 Mostly Mozart Festival in New York City. The ensemble was invited to perform as part of the festival's "A Little Night Music" series, which showcases emerging chamber music ensembles. Ensemble Chameleon's program included works by Mozart, Beethoven, and contemporary composer John Zorn, demonstrating the ensemble's range and versatility. In 2015, Ensemble Chameleon was awarded the Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming. This award recognizes ensembles that demonstrate a commitment to presenting innovative and diverse programming, and it was a testament to Ensemble Chameleon's dedication to exploring new musical territory. In addition to their concert performances, Ensemble Chameleon is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble has worked with students of all ages, from elementary school children to college students, to introduce them to the joys of chamber music. They have also collaborated with other artists and organizations to create interdisciplinary performances that combine music, dance, and visual art. Ensemble Chameleon's repertoire is wide-ranging and includes works by composers from the Baroque era to the present day. The ensemble has a particular affinity for the music of the Romantic era, and they have performed many works by composers such as Brahms, Schumann, and Mendelssohn. One of Ensemble Chameleon's signature pieces is the Piano Trio No. 1 in D minor by Mendelssohn. This work, which was composed when Mendelssohn was just 18 years old, is a virtuosic showcase for all three instruments. Ensemble Chameleon's performance of this piece has been praised for its technical precision and emotional depth. Another highlight of Ensemble Chameleon's repertoire is the music of contemporary composer John Zorn. The ensemble has performed several of Zorn's works, including his "Necronomicon" for piano trio and his "The Aristos" for violin and piano. These pieces are known for their complex rhythms and unconventional harmonies, and Ensemble Chameleon's performances have been praised for their fearless approach to this challenging music.

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