Flex Ensemble is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 2012 by a group of young musicians who shared a passion for chamber music. The ensemble is based in London, UK, and is known for its innovative and dynamic performances that blend traditional classical music with contemporary styles. The founding members of Flex Ensemble were violinist Tamsin Waley-Cohen, cellist Laura van der Heijden, and pianist Huw Watkins. All three musicians had already established themselves as soloists and chamber musicians, and they came together to form Flex Ensemble with the aim of exploring new ways of presenting classical music to audiences. Since its founding, Flex Ensemble has expanded to include a rotating cast of musicians, with Waley-Cohen, van der Heijden, and Watkins remaining as core members. The ensemble has also collaborated with a range of artists from different disciplines, including dancers, visual artists, and poets, to create unique and immersive performances. One of the highlights of Flex Ensemble's early career was their performance at the 2013 Cheltenham Music Festival, where they premiered a new work by composer Mark-Anthony Turnage. The piece, titled "Flex," was written specifically for the ensemble and showcased their ability to blend classical and contemporary styles. Flex Ensemble has also been recognized for their innovative approach to classical music, winning the Royal Philharmonic Society's Young Artists Award in 2016. The award is given to young musicians who demonstrate exceptional talent and creativity, and Flex Ensemble was praised for their "fresh and imaginative programming" and "outstanding musicianship." In addition to their performances in the UK, Flex Ensemble has also toured internationally, with concerts in Europe, Asia, and North America. They have performed at prestigious venues such as the Wigmore Hall in London, the Konzerthaus in Berlin, and the Lincoln Center in New York. One of the ensemble's most ambitious projects to date was their 2019 album, "Hewitt Plays Bach," which featured pianist Angela Hewitt performing Bach's Goldberg Variations alongside Flex Ensemble. The album was praised for its "exquisite playing" and "thoughtful interpretation," and it received widespread critical acclaim. Flex Ensemble continues to push the boundaries of classical music, exploring new ways of presenting and interpreting the repertoire. Their innovative approach has earned them a loyal following and cemented their place as one of the most exciting and dynamic ensembles in the classical music world.

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