Norrbotten NEO is a contemporary classical music ensemble based in Luleå, Sweden. The group was founded in 2007 by composer and conductor Mats Edén, who serves as the ensemble's artistic director. Norrbotten NEO is known for its innovative programming and collaborations with composers and performers from around the world. The ensemble's core members include violinist Karin Hellqvist, cellist Hanna Dahlkvist, pianist Johan Svensson, percussionist Jonny Axelsson, and clarinetist Kristina Sundin. These musicians are joined by guest performers for specific projects and performances. Norrbotten NEO has performed at major festivals and venues throughout Europe, including the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival, the Ultima Oslo Contemporary Music Festival, and the Donaueschinger Musiktage. The ensemble has also toured extensively in Asia, performing in China, Japan, and South Korea. One of Norrbotten NEO's most notable collaborations was with the American composer and saxophonist John Zorn. In 2013, the ensemble premiered Zorn's work "The Hermetic Organ," a piece for organ and ensemble that was commissioned by the Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival. The ensemble also recorded Zorn's "The Alchemist" for his label, Tzadik Records. Norrbotten NEO has also worked closely with the Swedish composer and sound artist Anders Hillborg. In 2016, the ensemble premiered Hillborg's "The Strand Settings," a song cycle for soprano and ensemble based on poems by Mark Strand. The piece was commissioned by the Los Angeles Philharmonic and was performed by Norrbotten NEO with soprano Anne Sofie von Otter. In addition to its performances, Norrbotten NEO is committed to education and outreach. The ensemble regularly works with young musicians and composers, offering workshops and masterclasses. Norrbotten NEO has also commissioned and premiered works by emerging composers, including Swedish composer Lisa Streich and American composer Tyshawn Sorey. Norrbotten NEO has received numerous awards and accolades for its performances and recordings. In 2014, the ensemble was awarded the Swedish Radio's Classical Music Prize for its recording of music by the Swedish composer Karin Rehnqvist. The ensemble has also been nominated for the Nordic Council Music Prize and the Grammis, the Swedish equivalent of the Grammy Awards. Overall, Norrbotten NEO is a dynamic and innovative ensemble that is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of contemporary classical music. With its diverse programming and collaborations with composers and performers from around the world, the ensemble has established itself as a leading force in the contemporary classical music scene.

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