Matthew Pierce Ensemble, the Long Island (East Northport, New York) based chamber group, features the writing of composer-violinist Matthew Pierce (San Francisco Ballet, Houston Ballet, Joffrey Ballet). The ensemble delivers the music of the highly acclaimed composer to the concert stage in an original program filled with fresh musical athleticism. "Bright, ephemeral and linear: Vivaldi meets Philip Glass."

Lauded by media and musicians alike, Pierce’s scores have been described as ”new, tuneful, dancey” (Allen Ullrich, Voice of Dance), “the ideal musical vessel” (Steven Winn, San Francisco Chronicle), and “possibly the best commissioned score in Houston Ballet’s history” (Molly Glentzer, Houston Chronicle).

Joel Smirnoff, (Juilliard String Quartet) was “truly charmed by the sincerity and substance of the music.” Pierce’s work has been singled out for such critical distinctions as the 2003 Obie Awards (Village Voice) and the “Best Cultural Event of 2003” for Imaginal Disc (San Francisco Chronicle). Pierce has recorded with pop artists Jewel, Sheryl Crow, Suzanne Vega and Philip Glass.

"New, tuneful, dancey." Allen Ullrich,

“Best Cultural Event of 2003.” (Imaginal Disc)

“Possibly the best commissioned score in Houston Ballet’s history.”