Khorikos is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2012 by Jesse Peckham, a composer and conductor based in New York City. The ensemble is known for its innovative and eclectic programming, which often features contemporary works alongside more traditional repertoire. The founding of Khorikos was inspired by Peckham's desire to create a professional-level ensemble that could perform challenging and diverse music at a high level. He recruited a group of talented singers from the New York City area, many of whom had studied at prestigious music schools such as Juilliard and Manhattan School of Music. The ensemble's name, Khorikos, is derived from the Greek word "choros," which means "dance" or "circle." This reflects the ensemble's commitment to exploring the connections between music and movement, as well as its focus on creating a sense of community and collaboration among its members. Since its founding, Khorikos has performed at a variety of venues and festivals throughout the United States and Europe. Some of the ensemble's most notable performances include appearances at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, and the Festival Internacional de Música de Cámara de Aguascalientes in Mexico. Khorikos has also been recognized for its excellence in performance and programming. In 2015, the ensemble was awarded first prize in the Chamber Choir category at the International Choral Competition Gallus in Slovenia. The following year, Khorikos was named a finalist in the American Prize in Choral Performance, and in 2017, the ensemble was awarded first prize in the Mixed Choir category at the International Choral Competition Ave Verum in Austria. One of the hallmarks of Khorikos's programming is its commitment to performing contemporary works alongside more traditional repertoire. The ensemble has commissioned and premiered numerous new works by composers such as Ted Hearne, Caroline Shaw, and David Lang, and has also collaborated with a variety of other artists, including dancers, visual artists, and poets. In addition to its performances, Khorikos is also committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly conducts workshops and masterclasses for students and community groups, and has also worked with organizations such as Sing for Hope and the New York City Department of Education to bring music education to underserved communities. Overall, Khorikos is a dynamic and innovative ensemble that is dedicated to exploring the boundaries of classical music and creating a sense of community and collaboration among its members and audiences. With its commitment to excellence in performance, programming, and education, Khorikos is sure to continue making a significant impact on the world of classical music for years to come.

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