Ensemble Modern

Who knew that a group of young musicians from the Junge Deutsche Philharmonie could create something as groundbreaking as Ensemble Modern? Right here in Frankfurt, this internationally acclaimed ensemble has been pushing the boundaries of contemporary music since 1980. Ensemble Modern isn’t your typical orchestra. It’s a collective of 19 soloists, a musical democracy where decisions about projects and even finances are made by the musicians themselves. No conductor, no director, just a shared passion for the music of our time. Imagine, musicians from all corners of the globe – Belgium, Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, India, Israel, Japan, Switzerland, and the United States – coming together to create this unique sound. Ensemble Modern’s repertoire is a vibrant tapestry of music theatre, chamber music, orchestral works, even dance and video projects. They’ve collaborated with titans of contemporary music like John Adams, Steve Reich, and Frank Zappa. Ensemble Modern calls Frankfurt home, performing regularly at the Alte Oper. They even host “Happy New Ears” workshops, inviting composers to present and discuss their work. This isn’t just about playing music; it’s about fostering a community, a dialogue between creators and audience. Every year, Ensemble Modern performs around 100 concerts, showcasing an impressive 70 new works, including 20 world premieres. They’ve received prestigious awards, from the German Federal Cultural Foundation’s “Beacon” of contemporary culture to Grammy nominations. Ensemble Modern is more than just a musical ensemble. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, a vibrant force in the world of contemporary music, making Frankfurt a hub for innovative sounds.