Hocket is a contemporary classical music ensemble that was founded in 2014 by Sarah Gibson and Thomas Kotcheff. The duo met while studying at the University of Southern California and quickly discovered a shared passion for exploring new sounds and pushing the boundaries of traditional classical music. Gibson and Kotcheff named their ensemble after the musical term "hocket," which refers to a technique where a melody is split between two or more voices, creating a rhythmic and harmonic interplay. This technique is a hallmark of Hocket's music, which often features intricate and complex rhythms and harmonies. The ensemble's main members are Sarah Gibson (piano) and Thomas Kotcheff (percussion), although they often collaborate with other musicians and composers. Both Gibson and Kotcheff are accomplished performers and composers in their own right, and their individual styles and influences come together to create a unique and dynamic sound. Hocket has performed at a variety of venues and festivals across the United States, including the Bang on a Can Summer Festival, the Carlsbad Music Festival, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic's Noon to Midnight event. They have also been featured on numerous radio programs, including NPR's Performance Today and KUSC's Arts Alive. One of Hocket's most notable performances was their debut album release concert in 2018, which took place at the historic Theatre at Ace Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. The concert featured works from their album, "Hocket," which was released on the New Focus Recordings label. The album received critical acclaim and was named one of the best classical albums of 2018 by The New York Times. In addition to their performances, Hocket is also committed to promoting new and innovative music through their work as composers and educators. They have commissioned and premiered works by a number of emerging composers, and they frequently give masterclasses and workshops at universities and music schools across the country. Hocket has received numerous awards and accolades for their work, including the 2018 Beverly Hills National Auditions prize, the 2017 EarShot New Music Readings prize, and the 2016 ASCAP Morton Gould Young Composer Award. They have also been featured in publications such as The Los Angeles Times, The New Yorker, and The Wall Street Journal. Overall, Hocket is a dynamic and innovative ensemble that is pushing the boundaries of contemporary classical music. With their unique sound and commitment to promoting new music, they are sure to continue making waves in the classical music world for years to come.

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