Decibel is a contemporary classical music ensemble that was founded in 2009 in Perth, Western Australia. The ensemble is known for its innovative approach to music-making, which combines acoustic and electronic instruments to create a unique sound that is both experimental and accessible. The founding members of Decibel were Cat Hope, Lindsay Vickery, Stuart James, and Tristen Parr. All four musicians were experienced performers and composers who shared a passion for exploring new sounds and pushing the boundaries of classical music. They were also all faculty members at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), which provided them with a platform to develop their ideas and collaborate with other musicians and artists. From the outset, Decibel was committed to commissioning and performing new works by Australian and international composers. The ensemble's first concert, which took place in 2009, featured works by Vickery, James, and Parr, as well as pieces by American composer John Cage and British composer Cornelius Cardew. This eclectic program set the tone for Decibel's future performances, which would continue to blend contemporary and experimental works with more traditional classical repertoire. Over the years, Decibel has grown and evolved, with new members joining and contributing to the ensemble's sound and vision. Today, the core members of Decibel are Cat Hope (flute and electronics), Lindsay Vickery (clarinet and electronics), Stuart James (percussion and electronics), Aaron Wyatt (violin and electronics), and Tristen Parr (cello and electronics). The ensemble also collaborates with a range of guest artists, including composers, performers, and visual artists. One of Decibel's most notable achievements is its extensive discography, which includes over a dozen albums and EPs. These recordings showcase the ensemble's versatility and range, featuring works by composers from around the world and across the musical spectrum. Some of Decibel's most acclaimed recordings include "After Julia" (2012), which features works by Australian composer Chris Tonkin, and "Chamber Made" (2016), which includes pieces by Vickery, James, and Parr. In addition to its recordings, Decibel has also garnered critical acclaim for its live performances. The ensemble has toured extensively throughout Australia and internationally, performing at major festivals and venues such as the Perth International Arts Festival, the Melbourne Festival, and the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival in the UK. Decibel has also collaborated with a range of other artists and ensembles, including the Australian String Quartet, the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, and the Australian Dance Theatre. Decibel's commitment to innovation and experimentation has earned the ensemble numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 2012, the ensemble was awarded the APRA/AMC Art Music Award for Excellence in Experimental Music, and in 2015, it received the Western Australian Premier's Award for Excellence in the Arts. Decibel has also been nominated for several other awards, including the Helpmann Award for Best Chamber Music Performance and the Limelight Award for Best New Composition. Despite its many achievements, Decibel remains committed to its core mission of exploring new sounds and pushing the boundaries of classical music.

More....