The Berkeley Ensemble is a classical music ensemble based in London, England. The group was founded in 2008 by a group of young musicians who were studying at the Royal College of Music. The ensemble is named after the Berkeley Square in London, where the group gave their first public performance. The founding members of the Berkeley Ensemble were flutist Kate Oswin, oboist Gemma Webster, clarinetist John Slack, bassoonist Dan Jemison, horn player Andrew Watson, and pianist Tom Poster. The group has since expanded to include other musicians, but these six founding members remain at the core of the ensemble. The Berkeley Ensemble is known for its innovative programming, which often includes lesser-known works alongside more familiar pieces. The group has a particular interest in British music, and has commissioned and premiered works by several contemporary British composers. One of the highlights of the Berkeley Ensemble's early career was their performance at the 2009 Brighton Festival. The group performed a program of British music, including works by Benjamin Britten, Frank Bridge, and Michael Berkeley. The performance was well-received, and helped to establish the ensemble's reputation as a leading interpreter of British music. In 2010, the Berkeley Ensemble released their debut album, "British Music for Wind and Piano." The album featured works by British composers such as Britten, Bridge, and Arnold Bax. The album received critical acclaim, with Gramophone magazine praising the ensemble's "impeccable ensemble playing" and "sensitive musicianship." Since then, the Berkeley Ensemble has continued to perform and record extensively. In 2012, the group released their second album, "Clarion Call," which featured works by British composer Howard Skempton. The album was again well-received, with The Guardian describing the ensemble's playing as "exquisite." In addition to their recordings, the Berkeley Ensemble has performed at several major music festivals, including the Cheltenham Music Festival, the Oxford Lieder Festival, and the Presteigne Festival. The group has also performed at prestigious venues such as Wigmore Hall and the Purcell Room. One of the Berkeley Ensemble's most notable performances was their 2014 concert at the Royal Festival Hall. The group performed a program of British music, including works by Britten, Bridge, and Vaughan Williams. The concert was part of the Southbank Centre's "The Rest is Noise" festival, which explored the music of the 20th century. The Berkeley Ensemble has also been recognized for their contributions to British music. In 2013, the group was awarded the Royal Philharmonic Society's "Young Artists Award," which recognizes outstanding young musicians in the UK. The award helped to raise the ensemble's profile and cement their reputation as one of the leading chamber ensembles in the country. In addition to their performances and recordings, the Berkeley Ensemble is also committed to music education. The group regularly gives workshops and masterclasses to young musicians, and has worked with organizations such as the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain and the London Schools Symphony Orchestra. Overall, the Berkeley Ensemble has established itself as one of the leading chamber ensembles in the UK. With their innovative programming, commitment to British music, and outstanding musicianship, the group has earned critical acclaim and a loyal following of fans.

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