California EAR Unit

The California EAR Unit is a chamber ensemble dedicated to the creation, performance, and promotion of the music of our time. The Unit was founded in March 1981 by a group of performers and composers with the goal of developing the first true repertory ensemble for new music in Los Angeles. As a result of its long and fruitful history, the Unit has achieved a flexibility and rapport rare in contemporary music, and has earned an international reputation as one of America's finest contemporary chamber ensembles. For its contributions to the field of contemporary American music, the ensemble has recently garnered awards from the LA Weekly (Best Classical Ensemble) and the 1999 "Letter of Distinction" from the American Music Center, and "Best of the Year" from on-line CD NOW.

This fall will see the EAR Unit’s residency at Chapman move into high gear. Last March pianist Vicki Ray presented a masterclass in extended piano techniques and contemporary performance issues. Among other things she worked closely with students Joshua Foy and Jessica Ross on rhythmic on rhythmic aspects of Steve Reich’s Piano Phase. During the fall percussionist and composer Amy Knoles will lead a masterclasses in composition and contemporary percussion techniques.

On October 20 the ensemble will perform works selected from their current touring repertoire in Salmon Auditorium (8pm). This concert is open to the public and free for members of the Chapman community.

On November 5th the entire ensemble will coach and perform with the Chapman Orchestra, focusing on works by John Luther Adams and Terry Riley (recent recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from Chapman).

The final event of the residency – rehearsed readings of works by Chapman composition majors written especially for the EAR Unit – will take place on November 17th in Salmon Auditorium (2-5 pm). This event is also open to the public at no charge.

For more information on the California Ear Unit, visit their web site: www.earunit.org