Elysium Ensemble is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1999 in Melbourne, Australia. The ensemble is known for its unique blend of early music and contemporary works, and has gained a reputation for its innovative programming and virtuosic performances. The founding members of Elysium Ensemble were violinist Lucinda Moon and harpsichordist Howard Penny. Both musicians had extensive experience performing early music, and were interested in exploring the connections between early and contemporary music. They were joined by cellist Josephine Vains, and the trio began performing together in Melbourne and throughout Australia. Over the years, Elysium Ensemble has expanded its membership to include a range of musicians, including singers, instrumentalists, and composers. However, the core members of the ensemble have remained Moon, Penny, and Vains, who continue to perform together and collaborate on new projects. One of the highlights of Elysium Ensemble's career was their performance at the 2002 Melbourne International Festival of the Arts. The ensemble presented a program of early and contemporary works, including pieces by Bach, Handel, and Australian composer Ross Edwards. The performance was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and helped to establish Elysium Ensemble as one of Australia's leading classical music ensembles. In 2004, Elysium Ensemble released their debut album, "The Art of the Trio," which featured works by Bach, Handel, and Telemann. The album received critical acclaim and was nominated for an ARIA Award, which is Australia's equivalent of the Grammy Awards. Since then, Elysium Ensemble has continued to perform and record extensively, both in Australia and internationally. They have collaborated with a range of musicians and ensembles, including the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, the Australian Chamber Orchestra, and the Australian String Quartet. In 2010, Elysium Ensemble released their second album, "The Harpist and the Nightingale," which featured works by Handel, Vivaldi, and Australian composer Elena Kats-Chernin. The album was again well-received by critics, and helped to further establish Elysium Ensemble's reputation as a leading classical music ensemble. In addition to their performances and recordings, Elysium Ensemble is also committed to education and outreach. They regularly conduct workshops and masterclasses for young musicians, and have worked with a range of schools and community organizations to promote classical music and early music. Overall, Elysium Ensemble has had a significant impact on the classical music scene in Australia and beyond. Their innovative programming, virtuosic performances, and commitment to education and outreach have helped to bring classical music to new audiences and inspire a new generation of musicians.

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