Founded at Cambridge University by its conductor Benedict Collins Rice to champion the music of 20th-century modernism, The Facade Ensemble now brings together Gramophone, BBC Music Magazine and Royal Philharmonic Society award-winners with BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artists, Britten Pears and City Music Foundation artists in compelling and original concerts like no others.
The ensemble has a core of 8 or so musicians but one of its strengths is a versatility which enables it to perform music outside the scope of most chamber ensembles.
Now as Ensemble-in-Residence at The Courtauld Institute and enjoying a reputation for 'razor sharp' (The Arts Desk), 'first-rate' (MusicOMH), and 'stunning' (Robert Hugill) performances, the ensemble carefully curates programmes which are both imaginative and accessible. Proving time and time again that music - often sadly dismissed as 'difficult' - can be a richly rewarding experience.
Recent highlights have included sell-out performances of Stockhausen; UK tours of Schoenberg (with Odradek Records) and Arvo Part; and a programme exploring ritual through pairing the Cantatas of Stravinsky and Birtwistle with medieval carols and Medieval inspired music by Bryars and Maxwell Davies.
Members
Meet some of our regulars -
We are extremely grateful to all of our supporters:
PATRONS
Felicia
Kieran
Anthony
David
Ali
SUPPORTERS
Henry Bailey
John Buckmaster
Siân Evans
Carol Scotland
FRIENDS
Hilary
Mary
Rebecca
Catherine
Jennifer
Janet
Marian
Joanna
Alex
Staff
Meet the team behind The Facade Ensemble:
William Searle - Associate Director
William has a long association with The Facade Ensemble, having worked with Benedict to produce Benjamin Britten’s The Turn of the Screw in 2015 and singing in many Facade projects since then. His previous experience working with the RCM Development Department, Sinfonia Cymru and at Whitgift School, as well as organising events for artists from Stephen Fry to The King’s Singers, means he hopes to be able to set up The Facade Ensemble as an established fixture in the UK’s classical music scene.
Evie Parker - General Manager
Evie joins The Facade Ensemble with a diverse background in the arts, having most recently spent two years as Concerts & Tours Manager with the Award winning Tenebrae Choir.
Evie currently combines her role with The Facade Ensemble alongisde positions with The Chapel & Choir Department at St John's College, University of Cambridge and as Ensemble Manager for California based professional vocal ensemble Aeternum.
Clement Collins Rice - Webmaster
Clement is a research chemist and tenor based in Oxford. He brings an enthusiasm for technology and design into maintaining the Facade Ensemble's presence on the web.