New Music Ensemble readies spring release of commercial CD featuring national park compositions

Grand Valley's nationally acclaimed New Music Ensemble is putting the finishing touches on a commercial CD featuring commissioned works that reflect the splendor of national parks.

That effort also received a boost recently with a grant from a national organization that supports and promotes the creation of new music.

New Music USA awarded the $4,000 grant to help with costs associated with having the CD professionally mastered for commercial release, said Bill Ryan, ensemble director. He said the grant is competitive, with about 1,500 applications for the 114 awards during this period.

"The collection of performers receiving the awards is diverse and consists mostly of professional groups, so it's really exciting for us to receive this award," Ryan said. "What we're doing is fairly unique." 

The recording, set for release in April, will include the commissioned works that were based on the features of select national parks, from the Vixen Geyser in Yellowstone National Park to the landscapes of Grand Teton National Park. Ensemble members also performed in the parks.

Founded in 2006, the ensemble is an undergraduate group that focuses on contemporary music. The ensemble has received recognition from national publications and performed throughout the country.