New Brunswick Chamber Orchestra
In order to present classical music in a different and exciting way that expands and explodes the conventions of the genre, we offer a new vision. It’s called “Reframing Classical Music.” Our goal is to redefine the “norms” of classical chamber music. We begin by programming our concerts around a specific theme or idea.
The New Brunswick Chamber Orchestra performs music that matters, whether it was written in the Middle Ages or sometime next year, in the heart of Old Europe or the new conservatories of East Asia.
Since its founding a over half century ago, the group has evolved into a professional ensemble of 16 to 26 musicians that tackles some of the biggest assignments possible for chamber orchestras. Its repertoire runs the gamut from Handel’s “Messiah” and Copland’s “Appalachian Spring” to John Adams’ “Shaker Loops” or Mohammed Fairouz’ “Named Angels”. Under the direction of our new Artistic Director, Dr. Julia Baumanis, the orchestra’s focus is on balance: presenting the full-spectrum of classical music from timeless masterworks to works by living composers, including commissions. In collaboration with the Composers Guild of New Jersey, we anticipate the world premiere of a major new work every year along with a smaller piece by an emerging composer.
The NBCO likes a challenge. It favors brilliant, exciting music that stretches performers and surprises audiences. In recent seasons the ensemble has tackled Sebastian Currier’s “Next Atlantis” for string orchestra and the recorded sounds of post-Katrina New Orleans, Arvo Pärt’s haunting “Fratres” and Astor Piazzola’s rollicking new classic “Four Seasons of Buenos Aires”. Pieces that are vital and relevant that connect with our audience.
The orchestra is a mobile ensemble as comfortable at a local church as in the historic State Theatre or the intimate Crossroads stage. Throughout the year, or principle players from into chamber groups to perform breakout recitals at Rutgers’ Zimmerli Art Museum, The Tavern at East Jersey Old Towne Village and other alternative spaces in New Brunswick. The orchestra calls this initiative “Reframing Classical Music” because it seeks a deeper connection to the visual and plastic arts. And the NBCO has had thrilling collaborations in recent seasons with nearby dance troupes and choral groups. More are planned.
As concert musicians we have inherited a tradition, but we are not constrained by it. Our music has few boundaries and many possibilities: multimedia, minimalism, dance, film and theater. Come and see what you think.