The Curtis 20/21 Ensemble is a classical music ensemble based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The ensemble was founded in 1993 by David Ludwig, a composer and faculty member at the Curtis Institute of Music. The ensemble is made up of students and alumni from the Curtis Institute of Music, one of the world's leading conservatories for classical music. The ensemble's name, Curtis 20/21, reflects its commitment to performing music of the 20th and 21st centuries. The ensemble's repertoire includes works by contemporary composers as well as lesser-known works from the 20th century. The ensemble's main members are students and alumni from the Curtis Institute of Music. The ensemble is led by David Ludwig, who serves as the artistic director. Ludwig is a composer and faculty member at the Curtis Institute of Music. He has received numerous awards and commissions for his compositions, including the Rome Prize and the Guggenheim Fellowship. Other members of the ensemble include Curtis Institute of Music students and alumni, as well as guest artists. The ensemble has collaborated with a number of prominent composers and performers, including Jennifer Higdon, John Corigliano, and Yo-Yo Ma. The Curtis 20/21 Ensemble has performed at a number of prestigious venues and festivals, including the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Ravinia Festival, and the Aspen Music Festival. The ensemble has also performed internationally, including tours to Europe and Asia. One of the ensemble's most notable performances was its 2013 concert at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. The concert featured the world premiere of David Ludwig's "Pictures from the Floating World," a piece inspired by Japanese woodblock prints. The concert also included works by Jennifer Higdon, John Corigliano, and Samuel Barber. The ensemble has received numerous awards and accolades for its performances. In 2012, the ensemble was awarded the ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming. The award recognizes ensembles that perform contemporary music and promote new works by living composers. In addition to its performances, the Curtis 20/21 Ensemble is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly performs for schools and community groups, and offers workshops and masterclasses for young musicians. Overall, the Curtis 20/21 Ensemble is a dynamic and innovative ensemble that is dedicated to performing and promoting contemporary classical music. With its talented members and commitment to education and outreach, the ensemble is sure to continue making an impact in the world of classical music for years to come.

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