Elevating the Arts: New York City's Five Boroughs Music Festival Welcomes The New Consort

New York City's vibrant arts scene is set to be enriched as the renowned Five Boroughs Music Festival (5BMF) announces the debut of the acclaimed vocal chamber ensemble, The New Consort, for its 2024-25 season. This prestigious festival, which has captivated audiences across the city since 2007, continues to showcase exceptional talent and foster a deep appreciation for diverse musical expressions.

Uniting Voices, Transcending Boundaries

Celebrating the Power of Musical Ritual and Community

The New Consort, winners of the American Prize in Chamber Music, is a vocal ensemble dedicated to exploring the transformative roles that musical ritual and community can play in the 21st century. Guided by the artistic vision of baritone and Artistic Director Brian Mummert, the ensemble recontextualizes historical works for voices, using them to humanize the marginalized and highlight the interconnectedness of various genres of musical expression.

Navigating Adversity with Compassion

Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, The New Consort has found solace and inspiration in the timeless work of composer Robert White's Lamentations. Mummert, reflecting on the profound impact of the pandemic on the arts community, shares, "From the loss of colleagues and friends to the overnight collapse of our industry, there was all too much for vocal musicians to lament." In response, the ensemble has collaborated with composer Jonathan Woody to create the world premiere of "Lamentation," a powerful work that explores the themes of adversity, contemplation, healing, and community.

Bringing the Narrative to Life

The New Consort's program, "RETURN / REVIVE: A Meditation on Grief, Hope, and Community," will be presented on two distinct occasions during the 5BMF's 2024-25 season. On Friday, November 1, at 7:30 p.m., the ensemble will take the stage at the Brooklyn Art Haus, while on Saturday, November 2, at 6 p.m., they will grace the halls of the Trinity Lutheran Church on Staten Island.

Fostering Connections and Inspiring Resilience

The New Consort's performances promise to be a profound and transformative experience for audiences. Mummert expresses his hope that the ensemble's storytelling will "help inspire you to face the adversities of our own time with strength and compassion." By weaving together the threads of grief, hope, and community, The New Consort aims to create a shared experience that resonates deeply with all who witness it.

Embracing the Diversity of Musical Expression

The Five Boroughs Music Festival's commitment to nurturing diverse musical talents and fostering connections within the New York City arts community has been a hallmark of the organization since its inception in 2007. The addition of The New Consort to the festival's lineup further solidifies its reputation as a beacon of artistic excellence and a champion of innovative musical experiences.

Tickets and Information

Tickets for The New Consort's performances are now on sale for $15. To secure your seat and be a part of this captivating musical journey, visit the festival's website or click here. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the debut of this exceptional vocal ensemble and be inspired by the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite communities.