Ensemble U is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2008 by a group of young musicians who shared a passion for chamber music. The ensemble is based in New York City and is known for its innovative programming and dynamic performances. The founding members of Ensemble U were violinist Yura Lee, violist Richard O'Neill, cellist Nicholas Canellakis, and pianist Michael Brown. All four musicians were already accomplished soloists and chamber musicians in their own right, but they came together to form Ensemble U with the goal of exploring new repertoire and pushing the boundaries of traditional chamber music. Over the years, Ensemble U has expanded and evolved, with various members coming and going. However, the core mission of the ensemble has remained the same: to present exciting and thought-provoking performances of classical music that engage and inspire audiences. One of the highlights of Ensemble U's early years was its debut performance at the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center in 2009. The ensemble's program included works by Beethoven, Brahms, and Dvorak, as well as a world premiere by composer David Ludwig. The performance was well-received by both audiences and critics, and helped to establish Ensemble U as a rising star in the classical music world. Since then, Ensemble U has gone on to perform at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls and festivals, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Ravinia Festival. The ensemble has also collaborated with a wide range of artists, from classical musicians like Joshua Bell and Itzhak Perlman to jazz pianist Brad Mehldau and singer-songwriter Gabriel Kahane. One of Ensemble U's most notable collaborations was with the Mark Morris Dance Group, with whom the ensemble performed a series of concerts in 2013. The program featured works by Bach, Schubert, and Brahms, as well as a new piece by composer Ethan Iverson. The collaboration was a huge success, with critics praising the seamless integration of music and dance. Ensemble U has also been recognized for its recordings, which have received critical acclaim and numerous awards. The ensemble's debut album, released in 2012, featured works by Schumann, Brahms, and Dvorak, and was named one of the best classical albums of the year by The New York Times. The ensemble's subsequent albums have continued to receive praise for their innovative programming and virtuosic performances. Throughout its history, Ensemble U has remained committed to commissioning and performing new works by contemporary composers. The ensemble has premiered works by a wide range of composers, including David Ludwig, Nico Muhly, and Caroline Shaw. In 2018, Ensemble U premiered a new work by composer Andrew Norman, which was commissioned by the ensemble and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Ensemble U's commitment to new music and innovative programming has earned the ensemble numerous awards and accolades. In 2012, the ensemble was awarded the Avery Fisher Career Grant, one of the most prestigious awards for young classical musicians. The ensemble has also been recognized by the Chamber Music America/ASCAP Awards for Adventurous Programming, and has been named one of the top classical music ensembles by The New York Times and other publications. Today, Ensemble U continues to push the boundaries of classical music with its innovative programming and dynamic performances.

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