History
The Cleveland Chamber Symphony (CCS) was established in 1980 by composer Edwin London as a professional ensemble with a focus on performing new music, primarily by American composers. Under London's leadership and with the commitment of a core group of Cleveland musicians, the ensemble expanded its activities over the next two decades, and dedicated itself to performing, recording, and commissioning contemporary orchestral works. [2]
At its peak, the CCS presented a concert series featuring eight programs, alongside multiple recording sessions, all under London's direction. Performances were held at Cleveland State University and various other Cleveland venues, including the Cleveland Museum of Art, Trinity Cathedral, Public Hall, Karamu House, Liberty Hill Baptist Church, Old Stone Church, and John Carroll University. The ensemble also performed in communities adjacent to Cuyahoga County and throughout the Midwest.
Composers recognized the Cleveland Chamber Symphony as a resource for their own work and that of students, and composers of national and international prominence, whose works were commissioned and performed by the CCS, were invited to serve as guest conductors and educators. The ensemble fostered collaborative relationships with composers. A performance of Bernard Rands Canti Trilogy at Harvard University followed a national tour.
In 2007, the group won a Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Soloist(s) Performance (with orchestra) category, for its recording of Olivier Messiaen's Oiseaux exotiques, conducted by John McLaughlin Williams with pianist Angelin Chang. [3]
The current music director of the Cleveland Chamber Symphony is Steven Smith.
Although the orchestra was first formed at Cleveland State University, it is now based at the Cleveland Music School Settlement.
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