ABOUT COLLAGE NEW MUSIC

“The core components of the Collage ethos: unapologetically ambitious works by living composers performed with manifest devotion and care, at an exceptionally high level of professionalism”

-The Boston Globe

Praised by the Boston Musical Intelligencer as “among the finest artists of contemporary (or any other) music,” the musicians of Collage New Music include some of the most outstanding instrumentalists and singers skilled in the musical intricacies, technical virtuosity, and emotional depth that new music requires. The ensemble includes some of the East Coast’s finest musicians, including members of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the area’s extraordinary freelance community. The initial ensemble consisted entirely of players from the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and over the years players from the freelance community have entered the group.

Collage was founded by BSO percussionist Frank Epstein in 1968 who then served as its first Music Director for twenty years. Composer John Harbison then became Co-Music Director for a short period, followed by David Hoose who became Music Director and conductor for thirty-two years, retiring from the position at the end of the 2023-24 season. Starting with the 2024-25 season, Collage’s 52nd, composer Eric Nathan assumes the title of Artistic Director and David Hoose becomes Music Director Emeritus.

Collage’s five decades of compelling music-making have placed it as a leader among adventurous ensembles that nurture that vital intersection of composer, performer, and listener. The ensemble’s repertoire, both wide and deep, reaches from classical twentieth century works, to extraordinary less-known older works, and to marvelous, brand-new creations of American composers. Its diverse programs include solo repertoire, music for larger ensembles, theatrical works, fully-staged chamber operas, and music with extensive electronics.

The ensemble appears on the New World, Koch, and Albany labels, and its recording of John Harbison’s Mottetti di Montale was a 2005 Grammy Nominee for Best Performance by a Small Ensemble. Each season, Collage also hosts a Collage Fellow, an emerging composer-in-residence, and hosts its Collage Composers Colloquium, a day-long examination of young composers’ music.