about us

Hailing from Tucson, Arizona, the Borderlands Ensemble is a classical chamber group composed of horn, strings, and guitar. Their distinctive sound results from their unique instrumentation, blending of genres, relationships with composers, and collaboration with artists.

 

Formed in 2017, founding members Johanna Lundy, Ellen Chamberlain, Sarah Toy, Ann Weaver, and Robert Chamberlain were ready to explore new concert formats after many years working together in orchestral settings. Since that time, violinists Emily Chao and Laura Casarez joined the group, followed by guitarist José Luis Puerta, who significantly broadened the timbral and genre possibilities. The ensemble employs a modular approach to programming, exploring different sounds through rotating instrumental combinations.

The group’s experimental concert formats disrupt classical music traditions and embrace the idea that meaningful serious art experiences can also be fun. Their creative and impactful performances build community through contemporary chamber music and their projects explore the culture of the borderlands.

 

The group has significantly added to the classical repertoire by commissioning new music that explores a variety of themes inspired by living in a border region, including identity, place, memory, impermanence, and belonging.

 

Borderlands Ensemble primarily features music by American, Mexican, and Indigenous composers. Their mission is to make classical music more engaging and relevant to all people.