The Academy of St Martin in the Fields Chamber Ensemble was created in 1967 to perform the larger chamber works with players who customarily worked together, instead of the usual string quartet with additional guests. Drawn from the principal players of the orchestra and led by violinist Tomo Keller, the Chamber Ensemble performs in all shapes and sizes, from string quintets to octets, and in various other configurations featuring winds. Its touring commitments are extensive and include regular tours of Europe and North America, whilst recording contracts with Philips Classics, Hyperion, and Chandos have led to the release of over thirty CDs.
Listen
Enjoy the following excerpts of performances by our Chamber Ensemble, recorded live in concert during their 2017 USA tour:
Mendelssohn‘s Octet in E-flat major, Op. 20:
Grieg‘s Våren (Last Spring):
This episode of the Academy Podcast celebrates the Academy Chamber Ensemble in their 50th anniversary year: