Role

:

Ensemble

 

Nova Ensemble is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1993 by a group of musicians who shared a passion for chamber music. The ensemble is based in Los Angeles, California, and has become known for its innovative programming and dynamic performances. The founding members of Nova Ensemble were violinist Robin Lorentz, cellist Timothy Loo, and pianist Gayle Blankenburg. They were later joined by violist Brian Dembow and clarinetist Gary Gray. All of the members of the ensemble are accomplished musicians who have performed with major orchestras and chamber groups around the world. From the beginning, Nova Ensemble set out to explore the rich and diverse repertoire of chamber music, from the classical era to the present day. The ensemble's programming has always been eclectic, featuring works by both well-known composers and lesser-known gems. Nova Ensemble has also commissioned new works from contemporary composers, including John Harbison, Joan Tower, and Bruce Adolphe. One of the highlights of Nova Ensemble's early years was a performance at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in 1995. The ensemble performed a program of works by Mozart, Brahms, and Dvorak, which was well-received by both audiences and critics. The Los Angeles Times praised the ensemble's "polished and expressive playing," and noted that "the group's blend of instruments was particularly effective." Over the years, Nova Ensemble has continued to perform at major venues and festivals throughout the United States and abroad. The ensemble has appeared at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the Ravinia Festival in Chicago, and the Festival Internacional Cervantino in Mexico. Nova Ensemble has also been featured on numerous radio broadcasts, including NPR's "Performance Today." In addition to its performances, Nova Ensemble has also been recognized for its recordings. The ensemble's debut album, "Nova," was released in 1996 and featured works by Brahms, Dvorak, and Schumann. The album received critical acclaim and was named one of the top classical recordings of the year by the Los Angeles Times. Nova Ensemble has since released several more albums, including "American Voices," which featured works by American composers, and "Brahms: The Piano Quartets," which was praised for its "exquisite playing" by Gramophone magazine. One of the most notable aspects of Nova Ensemble's performances is the ensemble's commitment to collaboration. The ensemble has frequently worked with other artists, including dancers, actors, and visual artists, to create multimedia performances that combine music with other art forms. Nova Ensemble has also collaborated with other musicians, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic's principal clarinetist, Michele Zukovsky, and the Pacifica Quartet. In addition to its collaborations, Nova Ensemble has also been recognized for its educational outreach. The ensemble has worked with schools and community organizations to bring classical music to underserved communities. Nova Ensemble has also conducted masterclasses and workshops for young musicians, helping to inspire the next generation of chamber musicians. Throughout its history, Nova Ensemble has remained committed to its mission of exploring the rich and diverse repertoire of chamber music. The ensemble's innovative programming, dynamic performances, and commitment to collaboration have made it one of the most respected and admired chamber groups in the United States.

More....