Ensemble MidtVest is a classical music ensemble based in Denmark. The group was founded in 2002 by a group of young musicians who shared a passion for chamber music. The ensemble's name, MidtVest, means "Midwest" in Danish, and reflects the group's origins in the central region of Jutland. The founding members of Ensemble MidtVest were pianist and artistic director, Marianna Shirinyan, violinist, Kristian Sørensen, cellist, Jonathan Slaatto, and clarinetist, Johannes Peitz. The group quickly gained a reputation for their dynamic performances and innovative programming, which often featured lesser-known works alongside more familiar repertoire. Over the years, the ensemble has expanded to include a rotating cast of musicians, but the core members have remained the same. In addition to Shirinyan, Sørensen, Slaatto, and Peitz, the ensemble currently includes violinist, Tim Frederiksen, violist, Asbjørn Nørgaard, and bassoonist, Christian Schmitt. Ensemble MidtVest has performed extensively throughout Denmark and Europe, as well as in Asia and the United States. The group has been featured at major festivals such as the Schleswig-Holstein Musik Festival, the Bergen International Festival, and the Tivoli Festival in Copenhagen. One of the ensemble's most notable performances was their 2010 debut at the prestigious Wigmore Hall in London. The concert, which featured works by Brahms, Nielsen, and Shostakovich, was met with critical acclaim, with The Guardian describing the group as "a young ensemble with a bright future." Ensemble MidtVest has also been recognized for their recordings, which have received numerous awards and nominations. Their 2012 album, "The Four Seasons," featuring works by Vivaldi and Piazzolla, was named "Best Classical Album" at the Danish Music Awards. The group's 2016 album, "The Secret Mass," featuring works by Frank Martin, was nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of "Best Choral Performance." In addition to their performances and recordings, Ensemble MidtVest is committed to education and outreach. The group regularly conducts workshops and masterclasses for young musicians, and has established a chamber music academy in their hometown of Holstebro. Ensemble MidtVest's innovative programming and dynamic performances have made them one of the most exciting and respected chamber ensembles in Europe. With a commitment to both traditional repertoire and contemporary works, the group continues to push the boundaries of classical music and inspire audiences around the world.

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