Uusinta Chamber Ensemble is a Finnish classical music ensemble that was founded in 1998 by composer Jukka Tiensuu and clarinetist Kari Kriikku. The ensemble is known for its innovative and experimental approach to classical music, and has gained international recognition for its unique sound and repertoire. The founding members of Uusinta Chamber Ensemble were Jukka Tiensuu, Kari Kriikku, cellist Anssi Karttunen, and pianist Tuija Hakkila. The ensemble was formed with the goal of exploring new and unconventional approaches to classical music, and to push the boundaries of traditional chamber music. Over the years, Uusinta Chamber Ensemble has expanded its membership to include a wide range of musicians, including string players, percussionists, and vocalists. The ensemble has also collaborated with a number of prominent composers, including Magnus Lindberg, Kaija Saariaho, and Esa-Pekka Salonen. One of the highlights of Uusinta Chamber Ensemble's career was their performance at the 2000 Helsinki Festival, where they premiered a new work by Jukka Tiensuu called "Plus II". The piece was a complex and challenging work that showcased the ensemble's technical skill and musicality, and received critical acclaim from audiences and critics alike. In addition to their performances in Finland, Uusinta Chamber Ensemble has also toured extensively throughout Europe and Asia. They have performed at some of the world's most prestigious concert halls, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the Royal Festival Hall in London, and the Suntory Hall in Tokyo. Uusinta Chamber Ensemble has also been the recipient of numerous awards and accolades throughout their career. In 2002, they were awarded the Finnish State Prize for Music, which is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a musician in Finland. They have also been nominated for several Grammy Awards, and have won numerous other awards and prizes for their recordings and performances. One of the most notable aspects of Uusinta Chamber Ensemble's repertoire is their focus on contemporary classical music. The ensemble has commissioned and premiered numerous works by contemporary composers, and has been instrumental in bringing new and innovative music to audiences around the world. Some of the most notable works that Uusinta Chamber Ensemble has premiered include "Graffiti" by Magnus Lindberg, "Notes on Light" by Kaija Saariaho, and "Mimo II" by Esa-Pekka Salonen. These works are characterized by their complex rhythms, unconventional harmonies, and innovative use of instrumentation. Despite their focus on contemporary classical music, Uusinta Chamber Ensemble also performs a wide range of traditional chamber music repertoire. They have recorded works by composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms, and have received critical acclaim for their interpretations of these classic works. In addition to their performances and recordings, Uusinta Chamber Ensemble is also committed to music education and outreach. They regularly hold workshops and masterclasses for young musicians, and have worked with a number of schools and community organizations to promote classical music and music education. Overall, Uusinta Chamber Ensemble is a unique and innovative classical music ensemble that has made a significant impact on the world of contemporary classical music.

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