Ensemble Ernst is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2008 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The ensemble is named after the German composer and music theorist Heinrich Ernst, who was known for his virtuosic violin playing and innovative approach to music composition. The founding members of Ensemble Ernst were violinist Merel Vercammen, cellist Amber Docters van Leeuwen, and pianist Dina Ivanova. All three musicians had previously studied at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam and had a shared passion for chamber music. Since its founding, Ensemble Ernst has become known for its dynamic and expressive performances of classical and contemporary music. The ensemble has performed at major concert halls and festivals throughout Europe, including the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Wigmore Hall in London, and the Festival de Musique de Menton in France. One of the highlights of Ensemble Ernst's career was their performance at the 2012 Grachtenfestival in Amsterdam. The ensemble performed a program of works by Beethoven, Brahms, and Shostakovich to critical acclaim. The performance was praised for its technical precision and emotional depth. In addition to their live performances, Ensemble Ernst has also released several recordings. Their debut album, "Ernst, Schumann, Brahms," was released in 2010 and featured works by Heinrich Ernst, Robert Schumann, and Johannes Brahms. The album received positive reviews and helped to establish the ensemble as a rising star in the classical music world. Over the years, Ensemble Ernst has undergone some changes in its membership. In 2014, cellist Amber Docters van Leeuwen left the ensemble and was replaced by cellist Willem Stam. In 2018, pianist Dina Ivanova also left the ensemble and was replaced by pianist Tobias Borsboom. Despite these changes, Ensemble Ernst has continued to thrive and has received numerous awards and accolades. In 2016, the ensemble was awarded the Kersjesprijs, a prestigious Dutch music award that recognizes outstanding young musicians. The award came with a cash prize of €50,000, which the ensemble used to fund their recording of the complete piano trios of Johannes Brahms. Ensemble Ernst's commitment to contemporary music has also been recognized. In 2019, the ensemble was awarded the Gaudeamus Award, a Dutch music award that recognizes innovative and experimental music. The award came with a commission to create a new work, which the ensemble premiered at the Gaudeamus Muziekweek festival in Utrecht. Today, Ensemble Ernst continues to be a leading force in the classical music world. The ensemble's dedication to both classical and contemporary music, as well as their technical skill and emotional depth, have earned them a devoted following and critical acclaim.

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