Variant 6

Overview

Variant 6 is a U.S. nonprofit organization focused on advancing the art of vocal chamber music. The ensemble is based in Philadelphia and conducts performances across the East Coast, exploring a wide range of musical genres, including early and new music.

Activities

Variant 6 engages in several key activities to achieve its mission:

• Performances: The ensemble delivers virtuosic performances of both rarely heard works and newly commissioned pieces.
• Commissioning New Works: Variant 6 supports contemporary composers by commissioning new music, which contributes to the evolution of vocal chamber music.
• Collaborations: They collaborate with other artists and ensembles to enrich their performances and foster artistic innovation.
• Education: Variant 6 educates young musicians about ensemble singing and chamber music through masterclasses and workshops. This educational outreach includes working with students from various institutions.

Residencies and Engagements

Variant 6 has held significant residencies, notably serving as artists-in-residence at Swarthmore College. During this time, they collaborated with students, performed concerts, and led educational workshops. Other engagements have included residencies at Cornell University and collaborations with notable ensembles like the Prometheus Chamber Orchestra.

Members and Affiliations

The members of Variant 6 maintain active careers in performance and education, often appearing with prominent ensembles such as The Crossing, Seraphic Fire, and the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Impact

Through its performances and educational initiatives, Variant 6 aims to elevate the appreciation and practice of vocal chamber music in the United States. By contributing to both the preservation of historical music and the development of new compositions, Variant 6 plays a vital role in shaping the nation's cultural landscape.