Polish ensemble Spółdzielnia Muzyczna and the UK Explore Ensemble will receive €75,000 to further their artistic and professional work in contemporary music

Explore+Ensemble+2021+Dimitri+Djuric+-+1+low-res

Explore Ensemble © Dimitri Djuric

The Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation has awarded prizes to two ensembles: the Polish ensemble Spółdzielnia Muzyczna and the UK Explore Ensemble. Each ensemble receives €75,000 to further their artistic and professional development and continue their innovative programming and connection with young composers.The prizes are awarded to ensembles that are emerging onto the professional scene and the majority of its members must be under the age of 35.

credit Joanna Gałuszka

Spółdzielnia Muzyczna © Joanna Gałuszka

Martyna Zakrzewska of Spółdzielnia Muzyczna stated, ’Where we operate geographically—in Poland—contemporary music has been stereotyped, and unfairly so, blurring its actual character. New music is virtually absent from philharmonic halls, from schools and conservatories, and even educated musicians seem to be avoiding or ignoring it; we revolve in the middle of nowhere, struggling with the lack of tools for change. With this honourable distinction comes an opportunity, as well as a responsibility, for improving the situation considerably’

The Ernst von Siemens ensemble prize was established in 2020 as part of the wider funding made available through the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation. Last year’s recipients of the ensemble prize were UK-based Riot Ensemble and Synaesthesis from Lithuania. With an emphasis on promoting contemporary music internationally, the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation was established in 1972, with the first Ernst von Siemens Music Prize awarded to composer Benjamin Britten. 

Read: Riot Ensemble and Synaesthesis awarded €150k by Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation

Read: Violist Tabea Zimmermann wins 2020 Ernst von Siemens Music Prize

Read: Elicia Silverstein’s 5 tips for approaching gnarly contemporary works

Read: Collaborating with a contemporary composer