Chamber Ensemble Musician

Chamber ensemble musicians work with a specific chamber ensemble. A chamber ensemble is a small group of performers; the most common are duos, trios, quartets, and quintets. There is a long history of chamber ensemble music, especially for the string quartet, and many ensembles will specialize in performing historical works. There are also many groups who perform contemporary works, work with a composer, or create their own pieces.

Some well-established chamber groups will host auditions, but the majority of chamber ensembles are created by groups of friends or colleagues coming together to play music. Anyone can start a chamber ensemble. There is more repertoire available to traditional ensembles, but a chamber ensemble can be composed of any combination of instruments.

Chamber musicians will get to know their ensemble members very closely. Many chamber musicians are self-employed and plan their own concerts, schedule their own rehearsals, and promote themselves through social media. Being self-employed creates a flexible schedule, but it also requires a lot of cooperation and effort.

Musicians in chamber ensembles are not required to have degrees but are expected to have strong performance skills. Many ensembles met through their college music programs or through professional gigs. Chamber musicians frequently teach, often running their own private studio or working at a college, university, or conservatory.