Group/Band · Classical

NOW Ensemble

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About

NOW Ensemble is a pioneering force in experimental music, challenging traditional forms and pushing the boundaries of contemporary music.

NOW Ensemble is defined by their immersive and experimental soundscapes, blending acoustic instruments with electronic textures. Formed in 1969 during the 'Music Now' festival at The Roundhouse in London, the ensemble was a pioneering force in experimental music, featuring a rotating cast of prominent British musicians including Eddie Prévost, Keith Rowe, and Cornelius Cardew. Their 2009 album 'Now' marked a return to recording after years of live performances, while 'Awake' (2011) further refined their approach, combining intricate compositions with improvisation. The ensemble’s most recent work, 'Dreamfall' (2015), continues to explore the intersection between composed pieces and spontaneous creation, making NOW Ensemble a cornerstone of avant-garde music. Through collaborations with influential figures such as Gavin Bryars and Hugh Davies, NOW Ensemble has maintained a vital presence in the world of contemporary music, influencing generations of musicians to come.

Sound

NOW Ensemble’s sound is a fusion of composed pieces and spontaneous improvisation, creating intricate and immersive soundscapes that defy conventional categorization.

Scene

NOW Ensemble occupies a unique position in the world of contemporary music, serving as both a historical link to the experimental traditions of the 1960s and a forward-thinking innovator in the field.

Timeline

· Formed in 1969 during the 'Music Now' festival at The Roundhouse in London.
· Pioneering ensemble featuring Eddie Prévost, Keith Rowe, and Cornelius Cardew among others.
· Returned to recording in 2009 with the album 'Now'.
· Refined their approach with 'Awake' in 2011.
· 'Dreamfall' (2015) continues their exploration of composed pieces and improvisation.