Hello world!
June 11, 2009
For almost 40 years, Speculum Musicae has been internationally recognized for its immaculately prepared and passionately rendered performances of the classical music of our time. Since its formation in 1970, Speculum has maintained its position as the nations preeminent contemporary chamber ensemble. They have been called “New York’s most important New Music group” by the Boston Globe. The years have in no way diminished their commitment and in their 2000 season, their tribute to Elliott Carter was cited by the New York Times as one of the year’s ten best concerts.
The group is comprised of twelve of the most gifted musicians on the New York scene, working together in a democratic, musician-run organization. Over the years, these artists have developed an unequaled rapport and ensemble sound. Their artistry, combined with a deep and lasting commitment to new music, has made them important actors in the development of the contemporary repertoire. In turn, these players have benefited from extensive collaboration and interaction with the composers whose works they present to the public.
Speculum Musicae has been in residence at leading universities including Harvard, Brandeis and as well as Rice University and has performed at numerous festivals, including the Bath (England) Festival and Warsaw Autumn. In 2003, they represented New York City at the Venice Biennale. During 20007–2008 season, the group filled the Distinguished Professor’s chair at the University of East Carolina. They have recorded discs with Electra Nonesuch, CRI, New World, Columbia Masterworks and Bridge Records and can be heard at Andante.com.
Speculum Musicae’s original purpose remains its central objective: working together as performing musicians to bring new pieces of music to life in concert and on recordings; also, after three and a half decades, to work with young performers to pass on to them the extraordinarily rich repertoire and tradition that the group has helped form.
