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Double Edge is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1992 by two musicians, violinist David Balakrishnan and bassist Edgar Meyer. The ensemble is known for its unique blend of classical, jazz, and bluegrass music, and has gained a reputation for its innovative and dynamic performances. David Balakrishnan and Edgar Meyer first met in the late 1980s, when they were both studying at the Aspen Music Festival and School in Colorado. They quickly discovered a shared interest in exploring the boundaries between different musical genres, and began collaborating on a series of compositions that combined classical music with elements of jazz and bluegrass. In 1992, Balakrishnan and Meyer decided to form a formal ensemble to perform their music. They recruited several other musicians to join them, including violinist Zachary DePue, violist James Dunham, and cellist Mark Summer. The ensemble took the name Double Edge, reflecting its commitment to pushing the boundaries of classical music. Double Edge quickly gained a following for its innovative and dynamic performances. The ensemble's music combined the technical precision and complexity of classical music with the improvisational spirit and rhythmic drive of jazz and bluegrass. The result was a sound that was both sophisticated and accessible, and that appealed to a wide range of audiences. Over the years, Double Edge has performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Hollywood Bowl. The ensemble has also collaborated with a number of other musicians and ensembles, including the Turtle Island Quartet, the Ying Quartet, and the Nashville Symphony Orchestra. One of Double Edge's most notable performances was its appearance at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia. The ensemble was chosen to perform at the opening ceremony, where it played a medley of American folk songs arranged by Balakrishnan. The performance was widely praised for its energy and creativity, and helped to introduce Double Edge to a global audience. Double Edge has also received numerous awards and accolades for its music. In 2000, the ensemble won a Grammy Award for Best Classical Crossover Album for its album "Appalachian Journey," which was a collaboration with cellist Yo-Yo Ma and bassist Edgar Meyer. The album featured a mix of traditional Appalachian music and original compositions by Balakrishnan and Meyer, and was praised for its innovative and engaging approach to classical music. In addition to its performances and recordings, Double Edge is also committed to music education and outreach. The ensemble has conducted workshops and masterclasses at schools and universities around the world, and has worked with a number of youth orchestras and music programs to promote classical music to young people. Today, Double Edge continues to be one of the most innovative and dynamic ensembles in classical music. The ensemble's commitment to exploring the boundaries between different musical genres has helped to expand the horizons of classical music, and has inspired countless musicians and audiences around the world. With its unique blend of technical precision, improvisational spirit, and rhythmic drive, Double Edge is a true pioneer in the world of classical music.

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