Crazy Jane is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2005 by a group of talented musicians who shared a passion for chamber music. The ensemble is named after the poem "Crazy Jane Talks with the Bishop" by W.B. Yeats, which reflects the group's desire to explore the complexities of the human experience through music. The founding members of Crazy Jane were violinist Sarah Chang, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, pianist Lang Lang, and clarinetist Richard Stoltzman. Each member brought a unique perspective and skill set to the group, and their collaboration quickly gained attention in the classical music world. One of Crazy Jane's early highlights was their performance at the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Oslo, Norway. The ensemble was invited to perform alongside artists such as Andrea Bocelli, John Legend, and Rihanna, and their performance was met with critical acclaim. In 2008, Crazy Jane released their debut album, "Crazy Jane," which featured works by composers such as Brahms, Schumann, and Debussy. The album received positive reviews and helped to establish the ensemble as a force to be reckoned with in the classical music world. Over the years, Crazy Jane has undergone some changes in its membership. In 2010, Richard Stoltzman left the group and was replaced by clarinetist David Shifrin. In 2015, Lang Lang took a hiatus from performing due to health issues, and pianist Emanuel Ax stepped in to fill his role. Despite these changes, Crazy Jane has continued to thrive and has performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, the Royal Albert Hall, and the Sydney Opera House. The ensemble has also collaborated with a wide range of artists, from jazz pianist Herbie Hancock to singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright. In addition to their performances, Crazy Jane has also been recognized for their contributions to the classical music world. In 2012, the ensemble was awarded the Avery Fisher Prize, which is given to outstanding classical musicians who have made significant contributions to the field. The prize came with a cash award of $75,000, which the ensemble used to support their ongoing work. Crazy Jane's repertoire is diverse and includes works from a wide range of composers and genres. The ensemble is known for their innovative interpretations of classical works, as well as their collaborations with contemporary composers. They have also commissioned new works from composers such as John Adams and Osvaldo Golijov. Overall, Crazy Jane is a dynamic and innovative ensemble that has made significant contributions to the classical music world. Their commitment to exploring the complexities of the human experience through music has earned them a dedicated following and numerous accolades. As they continue to evolve and grow, it will be exciting to see what new heights they will reach in the years to come.

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