Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

The New Millennium Ensemble is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1994 by flutist Lisa Hansen and clarinetist Jean Kopperud. The ensemble is known for its innovative programming and commitment to contemporary music. Lisa Hansen and Jean Kopperud met while studying at the Juilliard School in New York City. They quickly discovered a shared passion for contemporary music and decided to form an ensemble that would focus on performing new works by living composers. The ensemble's founding members also included violinist Curtis Macomber, cellist Chris Finckel, and pianist Stephen Gosling. Over the years, the ensemble has had several personnel changes, but Hansen and Kopperud have remained the core members. The New Millennium Ensemble has performed at major venues and festivals throughout the United States and Europe, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, and the Edinburgh Festival. The ensemble has also collaborated with many prominent composers, including John Adams, Steve Reich, and Philip Glass. One of the ensemble's most notable performances was at the 1997 Bang on a Can Marathon in New York City. The ensemble performed a piece by composer David Lang called "Cheating, Lying, Stealing," which became one of the most talked-about performances of the festival. The New Millennium Ensemble has also been recognized for its recordings. The ensemble's debut album, "New Millennium Ensemble," was released in 1997 and received critical acclaim. The album features works by John Adams, Steve Reich, and other contemporary composers. In 2001, the ensemble released a second album, "Dancing in the Dragon's Jaws," which features works by composers Chen Yi, Bright Sheng, and Zhou Long. The album was nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of Best Chamber Music Performance. The ensemble has also been recognized for its commitment to education and outreach. The ensemble has performed in schools and community centers throughout the United States, and has worked with young composers to develop new works. In 2004, the ensemble launched a residency program at the University of Maryland, where they worked with students and faculty to develop new works and perform contemporary music. The New Millennium Ensemble has received numerous awards and honors over the years. In 1998, the ensemble was awarded the ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming. In 2000, the ensemble was awarded the Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming. In 2002, the ensemble was awarded the CMAcclaim Award, which recognizes ensembles that have demonstrated excellence in performance, programming, and outreach. The New Millennium Ensemble continues to be a leading ensemble in the world of contemporary classical music. With its innovative programming, commitment to new music, and dedication to education and outreach, the ensemble has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music.

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