Role

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Ensemble

 

The Grand Valley State University New Music Ensemble is a classical music ensemble based in Allendale, Michigan. The ensemble was founded in 2006 by Bill Ryan, a professor of music at Grand Valley State University. The ensemble is made up of undergraduate and graduate students from the university's music program. The ensemble's mission is to perform and promote contemporary classical music, with a focus on works by living composers. The ensemble has commissioned and premiered over 100 new works since its founding, and has performed at major venues and festivals across the United States and Europe. The ensemble's main members include Bill Ryan, who serves as the ensemble's director and conductor, and the ensemble's core group of performers, which includes flutist Alexandra Mascolo-David, clarinetist Erin Miesner, violinist Sarah Cleveland, cellist Paul Swantek, and pianist Jenna Lyle. The ensemble also features a rotating cast of guest performers, including composers, conductors, and soloists. One of the ensemble's most notable performances was its 2007 performance of Steve Reich's "Music for 18 Musicians" at the Bang on a Can Marathon in New York City. The performance was praised by critics and helped to establish the ensemble as a leading interpreter of contemporary classical music. The ensemble has also received numerous awards and accolades for its performances and recordings. In 2011, the ensemble's recording of Michael Gordon's "Timber" was named one of the top classical recordings of the year by The New York Times. The ensemble has also been awarded grants from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs. In addition to its performances and recordings, the ensemble is also committed to music education and outreach. The ensemble regularly performs at schools and community centers, and has developed a program called "Music in the Community" that brings music education and performance to underserved communities in Michigan. Overall, the Grand Valley State University New Music Ensemble is a leading interpreter of contemporary classical music, with a commitment to commissioning and performing new works by living composers. The ensemble's performances and recordings have received critical acclaim, and its commitment to music education and outreach has made it a valuable resource for communities in Michigan and beyond.

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