Role

:

Ensemble

Country

:

United States of America

Genre

:

Concerto

 

 

Orchestral

 

 

Symphony

 

The American Composers Orchestra (ACO) is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1977 by composer Francis Thorne. The ensemble is dedicated to the performance and promotion of contemporary American classical music, with a focus on works by living composers. The ACO has had a number of notable members over the years, including music director and conductor George Manahan, who served in that role from 1986 to 2018. Other notable members have included composers Joan Tower, John Corigliano, and Aaron Jay Kernis, among others. One of the highlights of the ACO's history was its 1987 performance at Carnegie Hall, which featured the world premiere of John Corigliano's Symphony No. 1. The piece, which was commissioned by the ACO, went on to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1991. In addition to its performances, the ACO has also been involved in a number of educational and outreach programs over the years. These have included partnerships with schools and community organizations, as well as workshops and masterclasses for young composers. Another notable achievement for the ACO was its 2011 residency at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The residency included a series of concerts and events that explored the connections between music and visual art. Over the years, the ACO has received numerous awards and honors for its contributions to the world of classical music. These have included grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts, and the Aaron Copland Fund for Music, among others. Today, the ACO continues to be a leading force in the world of contemporary American classical music. With a commitment to innovation and a dedication to promoting the work of living composers, the ensemble remains an important part of the classical music landscape.

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