The Illinois Modern Ensemble is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1947 at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The ensemble is dedicated to performing contemporary classical music and has become one of the most respected ensembles of its kind in the United States. The ensemble was founded by John Garvey, who was a professor of music at the University of Illinois. Garvey was passionate about contemporary classical music and wanted to create an ensemble that would focus on performing this type of music. He recruited a group of talented musicians from the university and the community to form the Illinois Modern Ensemble. Over the years, the ensemble has had many different members, but some of the most notable include conductor Stephen Taylor, composer Salvatore Martirano, and pianist William Heiles. These individuals have helped to shape the ensemble and have contributed to its success. One of the highlights of the Illinois Modern Ensemble's history was its performance at the 1964 New York World's Fair. The ensemble was invited to perform at the fair and played a program of contemporary classical music that was well-received by audiences. This performance helped to establish the ensemble as a major force in the world of contemporary classical music. Another notable performance by the Illinois Modern Ensemble was its 1970 performance of Martirano's "L's GA" at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. This performance was part of the American Music Festival and was a major success. The ensemble received a standing ovation and was praised for its innovative and exciting performance. The Illinois Modern Ensemble has also received many awards and honors over the years. In 1971, the ensemble was awarded a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to support its performances and recordings. In 1980, the ensemble was awarded the Illinois Governor's Award for the Arts in recognition of its contributions to the arts in the state. Today, the Illinois Modern Ensemble continues to perform contemporary classical music and is recognized as one of the leading ensembles of its kind in the world. The ensemble has recorded many albums and has performed at major venues and festivals around the world. Its members continue to be dedicated to the performance and promotion of contemporary classical music, and the ensemble's legacy is sure to continue for many years to come.

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