Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Choral

 

Ensemble Carpe Diem is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2001 by a group of musicians who shared a passion for chamber music. The ensemble is based in Columbus, Ohio, and is known for its innovative programming and dynamic performances. The founding members of Ensemble Carpe Diem were violinist Charles Wetherbee, violist John Ewing, cellist Carol Ou, and pianist Roy Howat. All four musicians had extensive experience performing in chamber music ensembles and were committed to exploring new repertoire and pushing the boundaries of traditional classical music. Over the years, Ensemble Carpe Diem has expanded its membership to include a rotating cast of talented musicians, but the core group of Wetherbee, Ewing, Ou, and Howat has remained constant. The ensemble has also collaborated with a wide range of guest artists, including vocalists, percussionists, and other instrumentalists. One of the hallmarks of Ensemble Carpe Diem's performances is its commitment to exploring the connections between different musical genres and styles. The ensemble's repertoire includes works from the classical canon, as well as pieces from contemporary composers and traditional folk music from around the world. Ensemble Carpe Diem has performed at some of the most prestigious concert halls and festivals in the United States and abroad. The ensemble has been featured at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., the Ravinia Festival in Chicago, and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland, among many others. In addition to its live performances, Ensemble Carpe Diem has also released several critically acclaimed recordings. The ensemble's debut album, "Carpe Diem," was released in 2003 and featured works by Mozart, Brahms, and Dvorak. Subsequent albums have explored a wide range of repertoire, including works by contemporary composers and traditional folk music from around the world. Ensemble Carpe Diem has received numerous awards and accolades for its performances and recordings. In 2005, the ensemble was awarded the Chamber Music America/ASCAP Award for Adventurous Programming. The ensemble has also been featured on NPR's "Performance Today" and has been praised by critics for its virtuosic playing and innovative programming. One of the highlights of Ensemble Carpe Diem's career was its performance at the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai, China. The ensemble was invited to represent the United States at the Expo and performed a series of concerts that showcased the diversity and richness of American culture. Ensemble Carpe Diem has also been committed to education and outreach throughout its career. The ensemble has conducted masterclasses and workshops for students of all ages and has worked with a wide range of community organizations to bring classical music to underserved audiences. In conclusion, Ensemble Carpe Diem is a dynamic and innovative classical music ensemble that has made a significant impact on the chamber music world. With its commitment to exploring new repertoire and pushing the boundaries of traditional classical music, the ensemble has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative groups in the field.

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