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Contemporary

 

Due East is a contemporary classical music ensemble that was founded in 2002 by percussionist Erin Lesser and flutist Greg Beyer. The ensemble is based in Chicago, Illinois, and has gained a reputation for its innovative and dynamic performances that blend traditional classical music with contemporary styles and techniques. Erin Lesser and Greg Beyer met while studying at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York. They quickly discovered a shared passion for exploring new sounds and pushing the boundaries of classical music. After graduating, they both moved to Chicago and began performing together as Due East. The ensemble's name is a nod to their shared roots in the eastern United States, as well as their commitment to exploring the intersection of different musical traditions. Over the years, Due East has expanded to include a rotating cast of musicians, including pianist Mabel Kwan, cellist Craig Hultgren, and percussionist Peter Martin. One of the hallmarks of Due East's performances is their use of extended techniques and unconventional instruments. For example, they often incorporate found objects like metal pipes and glass bottles into their percussion setups, and use techniques like circular breathing and multiphonics to create new sounds on their wind instruments. Due East has performed at a wide range of venues and festivals across the United States and internationally. Some of their most notable performances include appearances at the Bang on a Can Marathon in New York City, the Chicago Cultural Center, and the Beijing Modern Music Festival in China. In addition to their live performances, Due East has also released several critically acclaimed albums. Their debut album, Drawn Only Once, was released in 2008 and features works by contemporary composers like John Luther Adams and Augusta Read Thomas. Their second album, Bloom, was released in 2013 and features works by composers from around the world, including Japan, Australia, and the United States. Due East has received numerous awards and accolades for their innovative and boundary-pushing performances. In 2010, they were awarded a Chamber Music America Classical Commissioning Grant, which allowed them to commission new works from several contemporary composers. They have also been featured on NPR's "Performance Today" and have been praised by critics for their "fearless" and "adventurous" approach to classical music. Despite their success, Due East remains committed to exploring new sounds and pushing the boundaries of classical music. They continue to collaborate with composers and musicians from around the world, and are dedicated to bringing their unique blend of traditional and contemporary music to audiences everywhere.

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