PostClassical Ensemble

PostClassical Ensemble (PCE) is a dynamic and innovative musical collective that was founded in 2003 by Music Director Ángel Gil-Ordóñez and music historian Joseph Horowitz. Based in Washington, D.C., PCE is renowned for its unique approach to concert programming and performance, which often involves a deep integration of music with other artistic disciplines such as theater, dance, film, and visual arts. The ensemble's mission is to provide listeners with immersive musical experiences that are both emotionally engaging and intellectually stimulating, by exploring music within its cultural and historical contexts. Under the leadership of Gil-Ordóñez, PCE has distinguished itself by collaborating with an array of musicians and artists, and by expanding and contracting in size to suit a diverse range of repertoire, from chamber works to full orchestral compositions. The ensemble's programming is humanities-infused and tells stories that illuminate the interconnectedness of music with broader cultural narratives. This approach has led to the creation of innovative programs that have transformed the traditional concert experience. One of the core initiatives of PCE is the American Roots program, established in 2008, which focuses on the narrative of American music, particularly highlighting the significant contributions of African-American composers. PCE has also been at the forefront of championing lesser-known composers who have had a profound impact on culture and society, such as Silvestre Revueltas, Lou Harrison, Bernard Herrmann, and William Dawson. Notably, PCE has partnered with prestigious institutions such as the National Gallery of Art and the Phillips Collection. The ensemble served as Ensemble-in-Residence at the Washington National Cathedral from 2017 to 2020, where its program Cultural Fusion: The Gamelan Experience was acclaimed as the Best Classical Music Event of 2019 by Washington Classical Review. PCE's discography includes several critically acclaimed recordings. The ensemble has a particular interest in film music, as evidenced by their presentations of classic American documentaries with live performances of original scores, resulting in best-selling DVDs. Their recording of Bernard Herrmann's music, released in 2020, includes world premiere recordings of the 1944 radio play "Whitman" and the rarely performed "Psycho Narrative for Strings." During the COVID-19 pandemic, PCE adapted by turning past programming and recordings into documentary films that explore American music in the context of cultural and political history. These efforts have been recognized and featured in various festivals and media outlets. The ensemble's commitment to cultural diplomacy and educational outreach is evident through its multimedia immersion experiences, which have been produced by orchestras and universities across the United States. PCE's radio series, "PostClassical," produced by the WWFM Classical Network, offers thematic explorations of music hosted by Bill McGlaughlin, Horowitz, and Gil-Ordóñez. PCE's roster of guest artists and collaborators includes a diverse group of virtuosos and composers, reflecting the ensemble's dedication to a broad and inclusive musical repertoire. The ensemble continues to commission and premiere works by contemporary composers, further contributing to the evolution of the classical music landscape. Located at 5104 44th Street NW, Washington, DC, PostClassical Ensemble remains a vibrant and influential force in the world of classical music, continually seeking to expand the boundaries of the concert experience and to deepen the appreciation of music's role in society. For more information or to support the ensemble, interested parties can contact PCE at the provided address or through their website, where they can also learn about upcoming seasons, programs, and initiatives.