The Riot Ensemble is a contemporary classical music ensemble based in London, England. Founded in 2012 by Aaron Holloway-Nahum and Kate Walter, the ensemble has quickly established itself as one of the most exciting and innovative groups in the UK's contemporary music scene. Aaron Holloway-Nahum, the artistic director and conductor of the ensemble, is a composer and guitarist who has worked with some of the most renowned contemporary music ensembles in the world, including the London Sinfonietta and the Ensemble Intercontemporain. Kate Walter, the executive director of the ensemble, is a musicologist and arts administrator who has worked with a number of leading cultural organizations in the UK. The Riot Ensemble's core members include some of the most talented and versatile musicians in the UK's contemporary music scene. These include clarinetist Harry Cameron-Penny, flutist Amy Green, percussionist Sam Wilson, pianist Adam Swayne, and violinist Sarah Saviet, among others. The ensemble's repertoire is diverse and eclectic, ranging from contemporary classical music to experimental and avant-garde works. The ensemble has commissioned and premiered works by some of the most exciting and innovative composers working today, including Rebecca Saunders, Anna Thorvaldsdottir, and Aaron Holloway-Nahum himself. One of the highlights of the ensemble's early career was its performance at the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival in 2013. The ensemble performed a program of works by composers such as Brian Ferneyhough, Helmut Lachenmann, and Salvatore Sciarrino, showcasing their virtuosity and versatility as performers. In 2014, the ensemble released its debut album, entitled "Speak, Be Silent," on the HCR label. The album featured works by composers such as Rebecca Saunders, Liza Lim, and Christopher Fox, and was widely praised for its innovative programming and virtuosic performances. Since then, the ensemble has continued to perform and record extensively, collaborating with a wide range of composers and performers from around the world. In 2018, the ensemble released its second album, entitled "Songs for the M8," which featured works by composers such as Aaron Holloway-Nahum, Chaya Czernowin, and Mirela Ivičević. The ensemble has also been recognized for its outstanding performances and contributions to the contemporary music scene. In 2016, the ensemble was awarded the Royal Philharmonic Society's Ensemble Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the UK's classical music scene. The ensemble was also nominated for a South Bank Sky Arts Award in 2018, in recognition of its innovative programming and performances. In addition to its performances and recordings, the Riot Ensemble is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly works with young musicians and composers, providing workshops and masterclasses to help develop the next generation of contemporary music performers and creators. Overall, the Riot Ensemble is a dynamic and innovative ensemble that is pushing the boundaries of contemporary classical music in the UK and beyond. With its virtuosic performances, innovative programming, and commitment to education and outreach, the ensemble is sure to continue making a significant impact on the contemporary music scene for years to come.

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