ear to the

earth

ensemble

environmentally focused performances that invite us to consider our role on this Earth.

Ear to the Earth Ensemble is a group of artists who develop performances to create engaging conversations with, for, and about our environment.

our mission

Ear to the Earth invites you to discover how music can convey struggle and hope in a climate crisis. We work with people in a way that lets them feel heard and included regardless of their situation or background. Through music, we approach themes of isolation, erosion, community, and belonging in a world that forces us to be constantly moving. Our performances are an opportunity to reflect, reconnect, and enjoy the simplicity of sound and human interaction.

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For us, fighting the climate crisis, appreciating nature, and creating community are not separate, and listening to each other is essential to developing a greater appreciation of our evolving world.

what we do

Ear to the Earth Ensemble performs a repertoire of music rooted in a philosophy led by composers like John Cage, Pauline Oliveros, and Matthew Burtner. Within these composers, a common theme of engaging in careful listening emerges: John Cage suggests music consists of sound and silence, Pauline Oliveros asks to actively listen and remember when we are no longer listening, and Matthew Burtner creates ways for us to listen to understand scientific discovery through sonic art.

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As a newly formed group as of 2022, Ear to the Earth is forming plans for the coming year, including workshops on guided improvisation and building instruments out of found objects, as well as performances of pieces that highlight a particular need for accessibility of music in communities. These include Ann Southam’s “Natural Resources”, Pauline Oliveros’ “Rock Piece”, and Porter Ellerman’s own compositions which combine these philosophical ideas designed to aid in a collective discovery of sound. With a particular focus on audience participation, Ear to the Earth performs more traditional pieces with classical instruments, but with a clearer focus on connection to the audience through the spatialization of the musicians, incorporating interactive elements, and opening for discussions following concerts and workshops.

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Ear to the Earth is now in the process of working on a new program set, including a series of workshops and performances for the year of 2025 in Italy, Spain, Belgium, and The Netherlands. We are also planning to create an open call for scores, and are excited to announce new plans after a successful time working with Ensemble Modern in 2024. Through this, we hope to make contemporary music accessible and engaging for audience members.

Send us a message and let us listen to your thoughts and wishes!

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